The Well-Tended Perennial Garden The Essential Guide to Planting and Pruning Techniques, Third Edition

Phlox stolonifera

creeping phlox

polemoniaceae

Purple, red, blue, or white flowers; small

oval leaves

6–12 in. (2 in.) high; 12–15 in. wide

Part shade–full shade

Blooms April–May

Zones 4–9

pruning Cut or shear deadheads

down to creeping basal foliage to

improve the overall appearance of the

plant. Plants remain evergreen over

the winter, so do not prune in the

autumn. Although winter damage is

not common, any branches that

decline over the winter should be
pruned off in early spring. Creeping
phlox spreads by stolons, which can be
pruned off to control spread if desired.
other maintenance Great
low-maintenance perennial. Useful as
a groundcover even in shady spots.
Nice between stepping stones in a
low-traffic path. Prefers moist, acidic,
humus-rich soil, although plants are
fairly adaptable. Avoid prolonged
drought. Can take some sun in all but
southern gardens. Not susceptible to
mildew, as with other phlox. Divide, if
needed, in the spring or summer after
flowering. ‘Blue Ridge’ features soft
Phlox stolonifera ‘Blue Ridge’ blue flowers over a compact plant.