Phlox drummondii is commonly known as Annual Phlox or Drummond's Phlox. This beloved flowering plant has vibrant flowers and long-lasting blooms.
This phlox is a hardy annual that can do a great job at bringing a burst of color to a garden.
Drummond's Phlox typically reaches a height of about 1 foot (30 cm). It has a spread of around 9 inches (23 cm).
Plants have narrow, pointed leaves. These provide a nice backdrop for their star-shaped flowers. These flowers bloom in clusters from spring to summer.
Drummond's Phlox plants are available in a wide variety of flower colors, including white, pink, red, and purple.
Phlox drummondii is beloved by many gardener's for its plentiful blooms, it also has good heat tolerance, and can be grown to attract butterflies to the garden.
As a native to Texas and parts of southeastern USA, it is suitable for growing in USDA Zones 2 to 11. It is rated as RHS H6, which makes this plant hardy throughout Northern Europe.
Drummond's Phlox has numerous uses in the garden, it makes a wonderful addition to flower beds, borders, containers, and for use in cottage gardens.
How to Grow Phlox drummondii in the Garden
Drummond's Phlox prefers a garden location that has full sun. It thrives in a well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Propagation of Phlox drummondii is done from fresh seeds (germination rates rapidly decline when using older seeds).
These can be directly sown outdoors after the last frost. Or start them indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. They are also suitable for winter sowing in containers.
Once established, Drummond's Phlox will require regular watering during dry spells. Do not overwater, as this plant does not sit well in wet soil.
While generally a low-maintenance plant, Annual Phlox can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites and diseases like powdery mildew. Good ventilation can help to prevent these issues.
Title: Quick Phlox drummondii Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Phlox drummondii.
Common Names: Annual phlox, Drummond's phlox.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 2-11. RHS Hardiness Rating: H6 (Hardy – but requires protection in areas with very cold winters).
Best Used For / Garden Location: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers. Prefers a sunny location.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Annual.
Plant Height: 6-18 inches (15-45 cm).
Plant Spread: 9-12 inches (22.5-30 cm).
Blooms: Spring to summer.
Flower Details: Small, five-petaled flowers in various colors including pink, red, white, and lavender. Often fragrant.
Leaf Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped, green leaves.
Fruit: Small, three-valved capsule.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun.
Suitable Soil Types: Well-drained, sandy or loamy, slightly alkaline soil.
Sowing, planting: Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost, or start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Germination time: Seeds typically germinate in 10-21 days at temperatures around 65°F (18°C).
Propagation: Propagate by seed.
Plant Care: Water regularly but avoid waterlogged soil. Deadhead to promote further blooming.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for containers. Ensure good drainage.
Growing as a House plant: Not typically grown as a houseplant.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Attracts butterflies, and is resistant to deer. Excellent for cut flower arrangements.
Pests and diseases: Spider mites and fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: '21st Century Blue' has blue flowers with a dark eye. 'Tapestry Mix' is a blend of various colors.
Family: Polemoniaceae, the Phlox family. There are also numerous Perennial Phlox plant species available to grow.
Native: Native to Texas and the southeastern United States.
References and Further Reading: RHS Phlox of Sheep guide; UTexas Phlox drummondii var. drummondii overview.
Common Questions
Does Phlox drummondii make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Phlox drummondii is a great choice for gardens or landscapes. It is a prolific bloomer, that can provide a profusion of colorful flowers throughout the summer.
Is Phlox drummondii a fragrant plant?
Phlox drummondii is not known to be highly fragrant. Making it distinct from many other species of Phlox. It is primarily grown for its vibrant and abundant flowers.
What is the perfect garden location to grow Phlox drummondii?
Phlox drummondii thrives in a garden location that has full sun and good drainage. It makes an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Is Phlox drummondii invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Phlox drummondii is not considered invasive in the USA. It is a native of southeastern parts of the country.
How do I remove Phlox drummondii from my garden?
To remove Phlox drummondii, pull up the plants and make sure to remove all of the root system. Regular deadheading will help to prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Summary
Phlox drummondii is a native plant of Texas. It thrives in the sun, and grows in most soil types, so long as there is good drainage. This popular annual flowering plant is great for adding vibrant color to summer gardens.
I hope you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Drummond's Phlox. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Polemonium, Phlox stolonifera, and Cobaea plants in the garden.
