Pretty carpets of pale to deep lilac-blue flowers appear in June with magenta stars at the centre above hairy, bright green leaves. This compact, spreading, semi-evergreen woodland phlox is one of the loveliest low-growing varieties. Try it en masse at the edge of a border in partial shade, or among deciduous trees. To minimise the incidence of powdery mildew plant in soil that remains moist in summer.
How to care for Phlox divaricata subsp. laphamii Chattahoochee:
Phlox are greedy plants, so apply a mulch 5-7cm (2-3in) deep, of well-rotted garden compost or manure in early spring. Shear off the spent flower stems to prevent reseeding. If the leaves show signs of powdery mildew, cut down to the ground and dispose of the affected foliage, but do not compost it. Clear away the debris around the plant to reduce the chances of reinfection. Lift and divide clumps in autumn and spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.3m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
-
This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.