Marian Keith
Family
Polemoniaceae
Botanical Name
Phlox divaricata 'Louisiana'
Plant Common Name
Wild Blue Phlox, Woodland Phlox
General Description
Admired for the rich violet blue color of its starry, fragrant flowers, 'Louisiana' is a compact, vigorous wild blue phlox that was originally selected from wild populations. This spreading, spring-blooming perennial that originates from eastern North America, from Quebec all the way down to Florida and Texas. So, a lot of variation exists in wild populations, in appearance as well as hardiness and cultural tolerances. As the name suggests, 'Louisiana' was collected from more southerly stock, so it tends to be a little more tender but remains evergreen through winter.
Mats of fresh, spreading foliage appear in spring from which rise stems topped with clusters of delicate, tubular, starry flowers. Bloom time is zone dependent, but most wild blue phlox bloom in mid-spring. 'Louisiana' produces loads of rich purplish blue, magenta-eyed flowers in open clusters atop upright or splayed stems. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the blooms. Plants may self-sow if their spent flower stems and subsequent seed heads are not removed.
Wild blue phlox thrives in woodland settings with moist, fertile, well-drained soil and partial shade. The clouds of spring blooms and creeping habit make this an excellent plant for naturalizing. Like many spring bloomers, wild blue phlox tends to look pallid as the season progresses, so it’s wise to plant it among other wildflowers that will shine later in the season. Seedlings that might appear in the garden will not be true to parent, but will always be pretty and garden-worthy.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
6 - 9
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Sunset Zone
1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17
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Plant Type
Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
6"-12" / 15.2cm - 30.5cm
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Width
12"-18" / 30.5cm - 45.7cm
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Spring, Late Spring
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Native To
Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, Central United States, Texas, Canada
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam
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Growth Rate
Fast
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Mat-forming
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Seasonal Interest
Spring
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Wildflower
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Hummingbirds, Butterflies
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Self-Sowing
Yes
