Wild Blue Phlox
Phlox divaricata
Summary
Woodland phlox, Phlox divaricata, is a native perennial that is increasingly popular in cultivated gardens for its attractive bluish flowers. Clumping or spreading horizontally, this member of the phlox family (Polemoniaceae) is often found growing on the forest floors in eastern North America, so partial to full shade and rich soil is a must for this spring woodland beauty.
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FAMILY
Polemoniaceae (Phlox)
BLOOM TIME
April-May
FLOWER
Pale blue to violet
MATURE SIZE
12-15 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Part shade to full shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Medium moisture, well drained soil
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
Wild phlox attracts butterflies, moths, bees, and flies. The flowers (which require cross-pollination to produce seed) are only pollinated by long-tongued insects including butterflies (especially swallowtails), skippers, hummingbird clearwing and sphinx moths, and bumblebees. These long-tongued insects are able to reach the nectar produced at the base of the long tube. The flowers are visited by many other insects that feed on the pollen produced near the end of the tube. The roots of the plant are eaten by rabbits and voles.
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