Fabulous Phlox

There are so many reasons to add Phlox subulata (aka moss pink or moss phlox) to the spring landscape. It’s easily used as a groundcover in a garden border, along walkways as edgings, spilling over walls, on sunny slopes, or in rock gardens. Phlox is a low grower, so place in the foreground where it can be seen and enjoyed. This reliably hardy perennial is ideal for use on Long Island.

Give Phlox what it wants:

Full sun, well-drained soil, and adequate moisture to new plantings. Phlox does show some drought tolerance when established.

A few favorite varieties to look for:  

• Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Blue’, commonly known as ‘Emerald Blue’ moss phlox, dazzles with early spring lavender-blue color.
• Just as the name suggests, Phlox subulata ‘Eye Candy’, is a delicious addition with its early spring two-toned pink flowers.
• Phlox subulata ‘Scarlet Flame’ brightens any garden with its intense deep pink flowers.

Worth mentioning:

• Cut back phlox after spring bloom to encourage another round of flowering and dense plants. Dense mats of creeping phlox can deter weed growth.
• Don’t overcrowd when planting; provide some space to grow and fill in.
• Phlox flowers are an early food source for pollinators.
• Reported to be deer resistant.