The Phlox plant was originally found in North America and comes from a Greek word meaning flame. It belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. The aromatic, showy flowers of the Phlox plant have quickly grown in popularity and they display their bright colors in summer and autumn. Some blooms have contrasting colored eyes or bi-color flowers.

The plants also differ in size; some are erect perennials and others are mat forming. The species P. paniculata is the taller garden plant and P. subulata is shorter and more mat-forming, like a groundcover.

Phlox are quite hardy and perform well in moist soil in either full or partial sun; prefers some afternoon shade. They require little attention in the garden and remain dormant over winter. It is recommended that the plants be moved every 5 years; they take the nutrients from the soil rather quickly.

Dividing or thinning out clumps help improve the air circulation around the plants and prevents powdery mildew. Be sure to water regularly and do not let your plants dry out for too long. Butterflies and hummingbirds flock to the clusters of these eye-catching blooms. Clip the flower stems after the blooms fade since this prevents the flowers from dropping seeds.

Suggested companion plants for Phlox are: Coreopsis, Penstemon, Rudbeckia, Salvia or Sedum.