Wild Blue Phlox

Wild Blue Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

Phlox divaricata, commonly known as Woodland Phlox or Wild Blue Phlox, is a beautiful native perennial that thrives in shaded or partially shaded areas, typically found in woodlands and along woodland edges. It produces clusters of fragrant, pale blue to lavender flowers in early spring, providing an important nectar source for pollinators when many other plants are not yet blooming. Its semi-evergreen foliage and spreading habit make it an ideal groundcover for naturalized landscapes, woodland gardens, and shaded borders.

Key Characteristics:

• Pollinator Support: Woodland Phlox is a magnet for early-season pollinators, particularly bees, butterflies, and moths, which rely on its nectar. The blooms also attract day-flying moths like the Hummingbird Clearwing Moth.

• Shaded Groundcover: This low-growing phlox forms a spreading mat of semi-evergreen foliage, making it an excellent groundcover for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or naturalized areas under trees.

• Fragrant Spring Blooms: Woodland Phlox produces fragrant, star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, lavender, and occasionally pink, adding soft, spring color to shaded areas. The blooms appear in early spring, typically from April to May.

• Thrives in Moist, Well-Drained Soils: Preferring moist, well-drained soils, this phlox species is perfect for shaded areas that receive consistent moisture, such as woodland edges or rain gardens.

• Deer Resistant: While not completely deer-proof, Woodland Phlox is relatively deer resistant due to its low-growing habit and slightly hairy foliage, which makes it less palatable to deer.

Product Details

• Native range: Eastern and Central North America
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Partial shade to full shade
• Soil requirements: Medium to moist, well-drained soils
• Mature height: 12 to 18 inches
• Bloom time: April to May
• Bloom color: Blue to lavender
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3-8

Woodland Phlox is a must-have for shaded gardens, offering early spring blooms, pollinator support, and reliable groundcover. Its fragrant flowers and deer resistance make it a versatile and beautiful addition to woodland landscapes, naturalized areas, and shaded borders.