Species garden phlox
cluster of light-dark-pink flowers with purple-blue buds, and green sepals

garden phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister'

Also Known As - border phlox,common phlox,common phlox
Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister') is an attractive, upright-growing perennial flower. Its large clusters of vibrant pink and white blossoms produce a dramatic floral display in mid-summer. Growing up to 4 feet tall, the glossy leaves provide the perfect backdrop for the deep-set panicles of star-shaped flowers. Garden phlox is an easy-to-grow plant, tolerating some drought but responding best to regular watering. Its mild, sweet fragrance makes it perfect for flower beds, or can be brought indoors to add a unique beauty to any room.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Pink-purple to white Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Garden phlox should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Water should be applied until it penetrates to a depth of at least 6 inches. During periods of hot weather more frequent, lighter watering may be necessary. The plants should never be allowed to dry out completely. Mulching around the plants will help to retain soil moisture. In late summer, after the blooms have faded, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks.

sunlight

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister') requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day in order to flourish, with more allowing for even more vigorous growth. When given enough sunlight, the heads of the flowers can reach 6 to 8 inches in diameter. It is best to grow this species of plant in areas with full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade in the mornings or late afternoons. To ensure good growth, garden phlox should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, with the ideal period being between 10am and 4pm.

pruning

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata ‘Prime Minister’) should typically be pruned in early spring, before new growth begins. Pruning too early, or too late in the season, can damage or stunt the growth of the plant. The best time to prune is right after the plant has finished flowering. Pruning too early may lead to a reduction in flowering as well. Garden phlox should be pruned to a height of 12-24 inches. Also, prune off any dead or spindly stems to encourage healthy new growth. Trim any straggly or leggy stems to the base of the plant. Additionally, cut off any branches that are crossing or growing in an unnatural direction. This will help to maintain the plant's shape and improve air circulation around the foliage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister' is usually in late summer or early fall, typically between August and October.

Starts Flowering

Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister' typically starts flowering in late summer, usually in July or August.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Phlox paniculata 'Prime Minister' is usually in late summer or early fall, typically between August and October.

Hardiness Map