Woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata) is a native wildflower, and ranges from the East Coast to the Midwest.
Barbara H. Smith © 2023 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Blooming in spring, woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata), a native wildflower, attracts pollinators to the shade garden. Butterflies, bees, and moths visit it for nectar and pollen. It blooms as other shade perennials like hostas, astilbe, and ferns are starting to grow.
Flowering usually begins in April and can last into May. The most common flower color is light blue. Some varieties have white, lavender, or rose flowers. The flowers are sweetly scented and numerous.
Plant woodland phlox in part to full shade in USDA planting zones 3a through 8b. Morning sun and afternoon shade conditions encourage more blooms. Plant it in soil that is well-drained and high in humus. In its native habitat, it grows underneath deciduous trees where decayed leaves provide ample organic matter.
Plants grow 12 to 15 inches tall when blooming. The foliage is semi-evergreen and low growing. Woodland phlox will slowly spread and form a mat. Also, it can spread by seeds. It is not rabbit or deer resistant.
In the early spring, flowering plants can be found in nurseries and garden centers. The cultivar ‘Blue Moon’ is one I see every spring in my local nursery. In addition, check seasonal native plant sales for it.
For more information, see HGIC 1181, Phlox.
Woodland phlox flowers are pollinated by insects with long tongues, such as swallowtail butterflies, skippers, and hummingbird moths.
Barbara H. Smith © 2023 HGIC, Clemson Extension
