Creeping Phlox
phlox subulata
Also known as: ["Moss Phlox","Moss Pink","Mountain Phlox"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with needle-like leaves and profuse, star-shaped flowers in spring.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Phlox |
| Botanical Name: | Phlox subulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or as ground cover in sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soil but performs best with some fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light trimming can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew in shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun promotes maximum blooms; morning sun is preferable; avoid deep shade for best performance.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.0–7.5).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH if unsure; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–9; prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold winters and moderate heat.
Mulch to regulate soil temperature; water early to avoid heat stress; avoid planting in extreme microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth; water before and after applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Shear back lightly after flowering; remove individual dead or damaged stems as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; light pruning after flowering can promote a second bloom.
Tools
Sharp hand pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape lightly; clean tools between cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Phlox subulata is typically planted in the ground; if grown in containers, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; avoid wetting leaves; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; fungal issues in humid conditions.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant but generally survive cold winters; prolonged freezing with wet soil can cause root damage.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging; apply a layer of mulch for insulation in winter; avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, reduced flowering, and leaf scorch; heat stress is more likely in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Water deeply during dry spells; provide light shade during peak afternoon heat if possible; ensure good air circulation to reduce humidity.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhlox subulata is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known harmful effects on feline physiology when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhlox subulata is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhlox subulata is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects on human physiology when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Creeping Phlox be watered?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Creeping Phlox attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Creeping Phlox be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and occasional pruning to maintain shape.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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