Phloxes - Phlox (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Phloxes

The phloxes are a group of hardy, flowering plants that will be familiar to many gardeners. With many species bearing showy flowers and being very cold-tolerant (many are naturally found in high alpine environments or at very high latitudes), phloxes are very popular ornamentals, and there are dozens of garden cultivars. Phloxes are also noteworthy for being particularly attractive to butterflies – for this reason, they're often a staple in temperate pollinator gardens.

Scientific classification

Genus

Phloxes (Phlox)

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

1 m

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Phloxes

Species

Creeping phlox Garden phlox Wild blue phlox Annual phlox Largeleaf Phlox Downy phlox Spreading phlox Creeping phlox Santa fe phlox Mountain phlox Wild sweetwilliam Carpet phlox Smooth phlox Cold desert phlox Cleft phlox Slender phlox Garden phlox 'Prospero'Garden phlox 'Alexandra'Wild blue phlox 'Chattahoochee'Creeping phlox 'McDaniel's Cushion'Garden phlox 'Mount Fuji'Creeping phlox 'Snowflake'Wild sweetwilliam 'Omega'Creeping phlox 'Red Wings'Garden phlox 'Albert Leo Schlageter'Creeping phlox 'Violet Pinwheels'Creeping phlox 'Blue Emerald'Phloxes 'Eva'Creeping phlox 'Purple Beauty'Creeping phlox 'Emerald Cushion Blue'Garden phlox 'Laura'Creeping phlox 'Bavaria'Garden phlox 'Alba Grandiflora'Garden phlox 'Roberta'Creeping phlox 'Candy Stripe'Wild blue phlox 'Chattahoochee'Thick-leaf phlox 'Miss Lingard'Garden phlox 'Eva Cullum'Garden phlox 'White Admiral'Creeping phlox 'Amazing Grace'Garden phlox 'Starfire'Garden phlox 'Bright Eyes'Phloxes 'Red Admiral'Garden phlox 'David'

Quickly Identify Phloxes

Stature varies widely from 3 inches (7.5 cm) to 5 feet (1.5 meters).

Flowers with fused sepals and petals, symmetrical with vibrant colors.

Leaves narrow, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long, glossy, with parallel venation.

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Care Guide for Phloxes

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Phloxes thrive in temperate climates, preferring well-drained soils and consistent moisture. While moderately drought-tolerant, they benefit from weekly watering. Primarily outdoor plants, phloxes need increased hydration during active growth and reduced watering during dormancy.

Propagation: Propagation of phloxes occurs via seed sowing, cuttings, division, or tissue culture. Key requirements include adequate light, temperatures of 18-24°C (65-75°F), and moist, well-draining soil. Stratifying seeds enhances germination, while cuttings benefit from rooting hormone. Consistent moisture is essential for success.

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Learn More About Phloxes

How to Grow and Care

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