Creeping Phlox Phlox subulata

Moss phlox is vigorous and noted for its creeping habit and the profuse carpet of flowers that bloom early to mid-spring and then sparsely until frost. It is native to dry, rocky or sandy areas, savannas, rocky ledges, slopes, clearings, and open woodlands. The foliage mats are cushion-like, resembling moss, hence the common name of moss phlox.

The stems of moss phlox are green when young, becoming tan and woody with age. Older plantings thin out as new growth spreads away from the center of the plant. It has many cultivars with vibrant pink, red, lavender, blue-purple, or white flowers that cover the plant from late April to early May.  Shearing the plants back after flowering may encourage a second, denser growth and smaller flowering. Moss phlox may grow to a height of 6 inches and prefers sunny sites with well-drained, slightly alkaline soils.

Garden uses include rock gardens, edgings, foundation plantings, or ground covers in sunny areas of woodland gardens, slopes, native plant gardens or naturalized areas. It will also drape slightly over a  low rock wall. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Moss phlox is relatively pest and disease-free and has moderate drought tolerance. It is resistant to powdery mildew (unlike most other species of phlox). Spider mites can be a problem in hot, dry conditions, and nematodes can cause damage to the leaves in wet/humid conditions. Rabbits may feed on the foliage but it is less palatable to deer.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.