| Phlox | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Phlox paniculata (garden phlox) | |
Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Phlox L. (1753) |
| Species[1] | |
68; see text | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
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Phlox (/ˈflɒks/;Ancient Greek:φλόξ "flame"; plural "phlox" or "phloxes",Ancient Greek:φλόγεςphlóges) is a genus of 68 species ofperennial andannual plants in the familyPolemoniaceae. They are found mostly in North America (one inSiberia) in diverse habitats fromalpine tundra to openwoodland andprairie. Some flower in spring, others in summer and fall. Flowers may be pale blue, violet, pink, bright red, or white. Many arefragrant.
The name is derived from the Ancient Greek wordphlox meaning flame in reference to the intense flower colors of some varieties.[2] Fertilized flowers typically produce one relatively largeseed. The fruit is a longitudinallydehiscentcapsule with three or morevalves that sometimes separate explosively.[3]
Some species such asP. paniculata (garden phlox) grow upright, while others such asP. subulata (moss phlox, moss pink, mountain phlox) grow short and matlike. Paniculata or tall phlox, is a native American wildflower that is native from New York to Iowa south to Georgia, Mississippi and Arkansas. It blooms from July to September.
Creeping phlox spreads rapidly and makes great ground cover.[4] It can be planted to cover banks, fill spaces under tall trees, and spill and trail over slopes. Creeping phlox blooms in spring and produces long, spreading stems, which become woody with age. It was introduced into cultivation by the late 1700s.[5]
The foliage ofPhlox is a food for thelarvae of someLepidoptera species includingdot moth,Gazoryctra wielgusi,hummingbird hawk-moth andSchinia indiana (which feeds exclusively onP. pilosa). Phlox species are also a popular food source forgroundhogs,rabbits anddeer.
The species in the genus include:[1]
Phlox species are widely grown for their abundant, colorful blooms and adaptability to a range of garden conditions. Their growth requirements vary by species, with low-growing forms such asPhlox subulata thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, whilewoodland species likePhlox divaricata prefer partial shade and moist,humus-rich conditions. Taller species such asPhlox paniculata perform best in fertile, evenly moist soil and full to partial sunlight.
Most cultivated phlox, with the notable exception ofPhlox drummondii, are perennial. Species from alpine habitats (and cultivars derived from them) require full sun and good drainage. Those from woodland habitats (such asPhlox divaricata) require partial shade and soil rich in humus. Those from waterside habitats (such asP. paniculata) require full sun and moisture at the roots.[6] Phlox are valued in the garden for their ability to attract butterflies. Phlox arepropagated fromstem cuttings, clump division, and seeds.[7]
Cultivated plants are spaced to allow good air circulation, which helps reduce susceptibility topowdery mildew—a common problem among taller varieties. Regular watering during dry periods and the application ofcompost ormulch in spring help maintainsoil moisture and suppress weeds. Removing spentflower clusters can encourage extended flowering.
Garden phlox benefits from periodic division every few years to maintainvigor and prevent overcrowding. After the flowering season, stems can be cut back to near ground level. Common pests and diseases includepowdery mildew, rust,leaf spots, andstem nematodes, though resistant cultivars are widely available.[8]
Media related toPhlox at Wikimedia Commons
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