Phlox
Phlox paniculata
Family: Polemoniaceae · Also called Garden Phlox, Summer Phlox, Fall Phlox, Phlox omniflora, Phlox brownii, Phlox macrophylla
Powdery & Soft · Summer bloomer
Garden phlox is the backbone of the midsummer border, big, domed clusters of flowers in saturated pinks, magentas, lavenders, whites, and bi-colors that bloom for weeks when the garden needs it most. Few perennials combine such generous flower power with genuine fragrance, making phlox the ultimate dual-purpose border plant.
harmony, sweet dreams, agreement
In the Victorian language of flowers, phlox means “Our souls are united”. Phlox is entirely North American, all 67 species are native to this continent, making it one of the few major garden flowers with no Old World species. European plant hunters in the 1700s sent phlox back to create the hybrids now grown worldwide. The name means 'flame' in Greek, for the intense flower colors.
Did You Know?
Phlox is the only major genus of garden flowers that is entirely native to North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa have zero native phlox species. The flowers are butterfly magnets, especially for swallowtails. Hummingbird moths are such effective phlox pollinators that some varieties have evolved longer flower tubes specifically for them.
Moist meadows, stream banks, and open woodland in rich soils
Phlox is native to Eastern North America. It naturally grows in moist meadows, stream banks, and open woodland in rich soils.
Scent Profile
“A sweet, powdery warmth with honey undertones, garden phlox is one of the most fragrant summer perennials, releasing waves of perfume on warm evenings that can scent an entire garden.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NamePhlox paniculata
- FamilyPolemoniaceae
- Native ToEastern North America
- Bloom SeasonSummer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Phlox is entirely North American, all 67 species are native to this continent, making it one of the few major garden flowers with no Old World species. European plant hunters in the 1700s sent phlox back to create the hybrids now grown worldwide. The name means 'flame' in Greek, for the intense flower colors.