Phlox subulata

Common Name
Moss phlox
Moss-pink
Plant Form
Herbs
Duration
Perennial
Max Height (ft)
1.0
Width (ft)
2.0 - 3.0
Growth Rate
Medium
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain

Photographer: forestseasons
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Photographer: forestseasons
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Additional Info

Habitat: Dry rocky woodlands, sandy areas, savannas, rocky ledges, slopes, clearings, and open woodlands. It is native mainly to the Appalachian Mountains. . Locally frequent in the mountains (except far sw. Virginia); infrequent in the piedmont.

Wildlife value: Flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, skippers, and bees. Rabbits eat the foliage.

Notes: nice rock garden plant. It grows up to 6 inches tall and up to 2 to 3 feet wide. Likes sandy and gravely soil and can tolerate hot and dry conditions better than other species of phlox. It is good practice to cut back the stems by 1/2  when flowering is completed to help maintain their shape and encourage dense growth.

Flower Color
Blue
Red/burgandy
Cream/White
Pink
Purple/lavender
Flower Prominence
Conspicuous
Bloom Time
Spring
Early Summer
Ground Cover
Yes
Evergreen
Yes
Light Requirements
Full sun
Moisture Requirements
Moist
Dry
Soil Texture
Loamy
Sandy
Low Maintenance
Yes
Good Choice for Public Spaces
Yes
Deer Resitant
Yes
Pollinators
Bees
Butterfiles
Hummingbirds
Number of Lepidotera Species Genus Supports
8
Bona Terra Nursery

Small family-run native plant nursery with a focus on the local genetics necessary to restore diversity in the Chesapeake eco-region. Offers free remote design service for small gardens up to 400 square feet. Orders are placed via email and items can be picked up at their NW DC office or delivered for a fee. This plant list is from the beginning of the 2025 season and may be out-of-date

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10 Quart size available May 2025

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