Same species
Species
Phlox maculataMeadow Phlox1 other cultivar
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Medium to Wet
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern and Central North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox maculata, commonly known as meadow phlox or wild sweet William, is an upright, clump-forming perennial native to eastern North America. It is characterized by its stiff, often purple-spotted stems, lance-shaped leaves, and fragrant flowers arranged in elongated, cylindrical panicles that bloom in summer. 'Omega' is a popular cultivar noted for its dense, conical clusters of fragrant, pure white flowers, each with a delicate pinkish-lilac eye. It is highly valued for its excellent resistance to powdery mildew, a common issue with other phlox species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering.
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Divide every 3 years in early spring to maintain vigor.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Divide every 3 years for rejuvenation
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season
- Never neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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
Meadow Phlox questions
What zones can Meadow Phlox grow in?
Meadow 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 Meadow Phlox deer resistant?
Yes — Meadow Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Meadow Phlox bloom?
Meadow Phlox typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Meadow Phlox need full sun?
Meadow Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Phlox to compare

Garden Phlox
Phlox paniculata 'Mix'

Prairie Phlox
Phlox pilosa

Garden Phlox 'Rene Duval'
Phlox paniculata 'Rene Duval'

Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe'

Sherbet Cocktail Garden Phlox
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 Meadow 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.

