Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata) is an amazing plant with unique characteristics that make it an awesome choice for gardeners. This phlox is an evergreen or semi-evergreen plant that has a creeping habit with needle-like foliage, adding texture and interest to any garden landscape. One of the most noticeable features of Moss Phlox is its mass of star-shaped flowers, which come in a variety of vibrant colors such as pink, purple, white, and blue, creating a stunning visual display.
Moss Phlox and its Native Region
Phlox subulata originates from eastern portions of North America. It enjoys areas with well-drained sandy or rocky soils so consider that when you are planting it in your garden. Moss phlox thrives likes full sun locations. I’ve found it can take a little shade but you won’t have as many blooms. In Tennessee is grows very well with very few issues.
Planting and Care
The ideal location for moss phlox is in full sun with well drained soil. I like it as a groundcover underneath trees and other plants because the roots won’t compete and the phlox will serve to keep the ground a little cooler.
When planting phlox space it appropriately for good air circulation and growth. You will find that over time they will grow together and form a nice thick groundcover.
The best time to plant Phlox subulata is like most perennials in the early spring. This allows the roots to get established before the hot summer months. Once planted, water the plants regularly until they are established, after which they become drought-tolerant. After that first season additional watering is seldom necessary except in times of drought.
Deadheading moss phlox is optional (I don’t deadhead it) but it can promote repeat blooming. If the plants become overcrowded, dividing them every few years can help control their spread and rejuvenate their growth, and make yourself some more free plants!
Ideal growing conditions for Phlox subulata
Phlox subulata prefers full sun but can also tolerate some shade, making it versatile for various garden settings. Well-drained soil is important to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant’s health.
| Growing Zones | USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8 |
| Sun Conditions | Full sun to partial shade (prefers full sun for best flowering) |
| Water Needs | Drought-tolerant once established, needs regular watering during the first year |
| Soil | Well-drained, prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) |
| Spacing | 8-12 inches apart |
| Mature Height | 6-12 inches |
| Bloom Time | Spring to early summer |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance, deadheading optional, occasional division for overgrown plants |
| Special Considerations | Attracts butterflies and pollinators, deer resistant |
Phlox subulata is also fairly resistant to pests and diseases which adds to its low-maintenance appeal.
Uses of Moss Phlox in the Garden
Moss phlox makes an excellent groundcover. It can suppress most weeds but doesn’t do well in my experience against Bermuda grass. Bermuda grass creeps through and can overtake the moss phlox. Phlox subulata is at it’s best when used as an edging for flower beds and rock gardens. It can also be used in container gardening.
4 Great Uses for Phlox subulata
- Ground Cover
- Rock Gardens
- Pots and Containers
- Borders and Edges
In rock gardens, Phlox subulata adds a pop of color and texture, cascading over rocks and crevices to create a natural, picturesque display. Its ability to thrive in containers makes it a great option for adding vibrant splashes of color to patios, balconies, or small outdoor spaces.
Varieties:
When it comes to Phlox subulata cultivars, gardeners have a wide array of options to choose from, each offering unique characteristics and vibrant colors. Here are 10 popular varieties to consider:
- ‘Candy Stripe’ Known for its white flowers adorned with delicate pink stripes.
- ‘Blue Emerald’ Striking bright blue flowers and a distinctive green eye at the center.
- ‘Millenium Pink’ Sporting bright pink flowers.
- ‘Coral Eye’: Featuring coral-colored flowers with a contrasting eye in the center.
- ‘Purple Beauty’: Rich purple blooms
- ‘Snowflake’ ‘Snowflake’ boasts pure white flowers.
- ‘Red Wings’ Vibrant red blooms.
- ‘Emerald Blue’ Featuring deep blue flowers.
- ‘Scarlet Flame’ Intense scarlet-red flowers.
- ‘Lavender Delight’ Delicate lavender blooms.
Problems
Phlox subulata is generally a resilient plant, but it can face some common problems that gardeners should be aware of. One issue that may arise is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can affect the foliage of the plant, leading to a powdery white coating on the leaves. To prevent this, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.
Another potential problem for Phlox subulata is root rot, especially in poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, plant moss phlox in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
In general try to keep the plant’s foliage dry to help prevent the spread of diseases.
In terms of pests, aphids and spider mites can sometimes target Phlox subulata. These tiny insects can suck sap from the plant, causing damage to the foliage. To address pest issues, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil as organic control methods. I’ve never had to treat our phlox for insects but it is something to be aware of!
Deer and rabbits have never bothered our phlox plants. That’s not to say they wouldn’t ever, but in 18 years of growing they just don’t seem to care about phlox!
How to Propagate Phlox subulata
As you may know on Growing The Home Garden I rarely grow a plant without learning how to propagate it! Phlox is no exception! Propagation of Phlox subulata is extremely easy.
Division of Phlox
One common method for propagating moss phlox is through division. This involves separating an established plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots, to create new plants. Spring is typically the best time to divide Phlox subulata, which allows the new divisions to establish themselves before the heat of summer. As soon as the blooms are finished you can start dividing!
Cuttings of Phlox
Another method for propagating moss phlox is through stem cuttings. This technique involves taking a cutting from a healthy, non-flowering stem of the plant and encouraging it to develop roots in a suitable growing medium. With proper care and attention, these cuttings can grow into new, independent plants that retain the characteristics of the parent plant.
I have pretty good success rates simply by cutting a sprig of a stem cutting and putting it where I want the plant to grow. If you look at the underside of the plant you will find that there are roots in areas where the sun doesn’t reach. This pre rooted branches are ideal to start new plants from! I usually take the cutting and put it in a pot for a little while until it bushes out then put it in the garden where I want it to grow.
All these features make Moss phlox is an awesome choice for your garden!
Gallery of Moss Phlox Photos
Migrating Hostas to a New Garden
Migration isn’t just limited to the birds and the butterflies, it happens in the garden too. We have about a month before the frost date here in Middle Tennessee (mid-October) and it’s time to move and divide the hostas in my garden. Once that frost date comes the hosta leaves will fade away and the hostas will be harder to…
Aster Yellows Disease in Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are one of my favorite perennials. Environmentally there are few things to worry about with them. They are drought tolerant, bloom prolifically, and help to create a beautiful landscape. Unfortunately there is one major issue that can destroy whole gardens of these perennials: Aster Yellows. Recently I filmed a short video on a coneflower in my garden that has…
Daylilies in Bloom: Daylily Hybridizing and Dividing
It’s that time of year where the daylilies are becoming the showoffs of the garden. Daylilies (Hemerocallis) area very common collectable perennial here in the south. They propagate very easily through division and are a prime starter plant for people interested in learning how to hybridize plants. Here’s a look at a little of what is blooming in our garden…
Heuchera Care, Maintenance, and Propagation
Heuchera are one of my favorite plants. I say that phrase a lot though, but really, heuchera, also known as coral bells, are awesome perennials that gardeners just love due to the beautiful foliage and versatility in garden design. Most heucheras you will find are hybrids of species plants of Heuchera sanguinea or Heuchera americana and they are found in…