How to Grow and Care for Phloxes

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is a flowering plant native to the United States. The Latin name Phlox subulata means needle-shaped, which describes its leaves. Creeping phlox is sometimes confused with marijuana due to its similar smell.

The garden phlox is a flowering plant that is native to the United States. The name, phlox, comes from the Latin for "flame," reflecting its bright colors. Garden phlox flowers can become important food sources for insects and hummingbirds.

Wild blue phlox (Phlox divaricata) also goes by the names of woodland phlox or Louisiana phlox, and it’s indigenous to eastern North America. The flowers sit atop hairy, sticky stems. In the wild, it loves to grow along stream banks. “Phlox” is Greek for “flame” because some flowers of this species have intensely vibrant colors.

Annual phlox (Phlox drummondii) is a flowering plant native to the United States. Thomas Drummond the historical naturalist sent the seeds back to Britain after a trip to Texas, and the plant is named after him. Annual phlox is a popular ornamental plant due to its bright pink flowers, which can be other colors from other cultivars.

Phlox amplifolia, or largeleaf Phlox, is an easy to grow, pink flowering perennial. These long-lasting flowers bloom all summer, thrive in full sun, and are very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. They add height, fragrance, and color to any summer garden.