Phlox maculata L.

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Meadow phlox

Taxonomy:

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Ericales
  • Family: Polemoniaceae
  • Genus: Phlox
  • Species: Phlox maculata
  • Binomial Authority: Linnaeus

Common Names by Region:

  • Meadow Phlox (United States)
  • Wild Sweet William (United States)
  • Spotted Phlox (United States)
  • Summer Phlox (United States)

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Description: Phlox maculata, commonly known as Meadow Phlox, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Polemoniaceae family. It typically grows 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) tall, forming clumps of erect stems. The lance-shaped leaves are arranged oppositely along the stem and can be up to 5 inches (12 cm) long. The fragrant flowers are produced in dense clusters at the top of the stems, featuring five petals fused at the base and ranging in color from pink to lavender to purple. Each flower has a white or pink eye and a tubular corolla. Meadow Phlox blooms from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Known Range: Phlox maculata is native to eastern North America, including regions of the United States and Canada. It is commonly found in moist meadows, prairies, open woods, and along stream banks.

Care Requirements:

  • Sunlight: Meadow Phlox thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day but can tolerate some shade.
  • Soil: It grows best in moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. However, Meadow Phlox can adapt to various soil types, including loamy or sandy soils.
  • Watering: Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Temperature: Meadow Phlox is cold hardy and can tolerate frost. It prefers cool to moderate temperatures.
  • Maintenance: Deadheading spent flowers can prolong the blooming period and encourage repeat flowering. Additionally, dividing clumps every few years can help maintain plant health and vigor.

Note: Meadow Phlox is prized for its showy flowers and ability to attract pollinators to the garden. It is relatively low-maintenance once established and makes an excellent addition to perennial borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas.


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