Moss phlox (Phlox subulata) floks sub-yew-LAY-tah Genus:  Phlox Moss phlox is a dense ground cover blanketed with notch-petaled flowers in April and May. Blooms can be muddy hot pink, bright rose, and magenta, while other cultivars include white, soft lavender-blue, clear pale pink to deep pink, clear scarlet, and lavender, some with a darker or lighter eye. Evergreen foliage is narrow, short, and stiff. Darker-flowered forms have dark-green leaves or red-tinged leaves that darken to burgundy in winter. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Reliable and low-maintenance. Use on steep, dry banks and cascade over walls and out of containers. Some cultivars grow very slowly, others are vigorous and can spread several feet if not cut back hard after they bloom. Care:  Thrives in average, well-drained soil and full sun, and tolerates drought and sandy, gravelly, rocky, and low-fertility soils. Propagation:  Insert basal cuttings in spring, or take root cuttings in early autumn or winter. Problems:  Powdery mildew, stem canker, rust, Southern blight, stem nematodes, Cercospora and Septoria leaf spots, leaf miners, and caterpillars.

Overview

Growth Habit Spreads Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Blue, Pink, Purple, White Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Ground Covers Style Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials