Annual Phlox, Texas Phlox
phlox drummondii
Also known as: ["Annual Phlox","Texas Phlox","Mountain Phlox"]
Overview
A low-growing annual plant native to Texas, known for its vibrant, fragrant flowers in various colors.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Phlox |
| Botanical Name: | Phlox drummondii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds, containers, or borders in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly during blooming season; light shaping as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light; outdoors, protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid overwatering in heavy soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat or frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plants are dormant; use a liquid fertilizer for easy absorption.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; snip off faded flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; deadhead regularly; avoid cutting into old wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the container; beneficial for maintaining vigor and blooming.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water deeply to encourage deep roots; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, especially in dry periods; reduce frequency in winter or dormant phases.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death in frost conditions.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in cold spells; avoid planting in areas prone to frost; bring potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 2–4 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhlox drummondii is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhlox drummondii is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhlox drummondii is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Phlox drummondii be watered?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 days during hot weather.
Q: Does Phlox drummondii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Phlox drummondii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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