Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Phlox subulata or Creeping Phlox

The genus Phlox, family Polemoniaceae, comprises about 70 species of annual and perennial plants native to North America and northeast Asia. Some species are: Phlox subulata, Phlox divaricata, Phlox paniculata, Phlox drummondii, Phlox caespitosa.

Common names: Creeping Phlox, Mountain phlox, Moss phlox, Moss pink. This species is native to northeastern North America.

They are herbaceous plants with a covering habit and creeping stems that reach 15 cm (5.9") in height. The small, linear, pointed leaves are glossy dark green. The abundant and attractive flowers can be pink, white, blue, red or lilac. They bloom in spring and early summer.

This easy-to-grow plant is used on semi-shaded slopes, in rockeries, edging and in pots for balconies, patios and terraces.

Phlox subulata grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures and in temperate climates. It does not resist frost well.

Creeping Phlox prefers well-drained soil that contains organic matter but will also thrive in poor, stony soil.

Water regularly so that the substrate maintains a little humidity. Moss phlox does not resist intense drought.

Prune off wilted flower stems when flowering is over.

Fertilize with manure or compost in early spring.

Phlox subulata is a plant quite resistant to the usual pests and diseases, but it can be attacked by snails and slugs that devour the new leaves.

Creeping Phlox is easily propagated by division and by cuttings in fall or spring.

Images of the plant Phlox subulata or Creeping Phlox