Garden Phlox
Phlox paniculata 'Laura'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
An upright, herbaceous perennial, Phlox paniculata is prized for its large, dense, terminal clusters (panicles) of fragrant, tubular flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. It features pointed, green leaves on stiff stems. The cultivar 'Laura' is distinguished by its vibrant, long-lasting panicles of fragrant, rich purple flowers, each with a distinct white eye. It is noted for having good resistance to powdery mildew.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
- Water thoroughly to establish roots within the first few weeks
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer
- Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize in early spring with compost or balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t cut back in late fall — prune in early spring instead
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Garden Phlox questions
What zones can Garden Phlox grow in?
Garden Phlox is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Garden Phlox deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Garden Phlox, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Garden Phlox bloom?
Garden Phlox typically blooms in mid to late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Garden Phlox need full sun?
Garden Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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Phlox paniculata 'Sherbet Cocktail'
Emerald Blue Moss Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Emerald Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Garden Phlox with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
