Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Polemoniaceae

Genus:

Phlox

Species:

Phlox subulata

USDA Symbol:

PHSU3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Subshrub

Height:

15 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

mar,apr,may

Bloom Colors:

pink, purple, white, blue

Ground Cover:

Yes

Lawn Substitute:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Hummingbirds:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented hummingbird visits (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★☆☆☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to rocky or sandy areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds germinate best after cold stratification; sow in fall or stratify for 4-8 weeks.