Phlox carolina

Common Names

Carolina Phlox, Thick Leaf Phlox, Summer Phlox, Giant Phlox

Summary

Carolina Phlox is a native perennial of the southeastern United States that grows in erect clumps about 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide, with slender stems and lance shaped leaves. It produces fragrant clusters of lavender to pink or white flowers from May to July, attracting bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, and it naturally occurs in woodlands, woodland borders, and openings. It favors full sun to partial shade and moist, well drained acidic soil, and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8. Propagation can be by seed, cuttings, or division, and it tends to self sow without being aggressive, suitable for borders, mass plantings, cottage gardens, and wildlife plantings. Mildew can be a concern; minimize risk with good air circulation and avoiding overhead irrigation.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

2-3 feet

Spread

12-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 6-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, tolerates partial sun or partial shade (about 6–8 hours of sun per day).

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, pH 6.0–7.0

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil.

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, Acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Pink, Lavender, White

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds