Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
6 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A low-growing, mat-forming, semi-evergreen perennial native to eastern North America, celebrated for its dense carpet of flowers in spring. Distinctive for its small, star-shaped flowers with notched petals that are bicolored pink and white, creating a candy-stripe effect.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root development.
- Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells, especially in summer.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage lush foliage.
- Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vigorous, colorful blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture 🌱
- Fertilize in early spring for abundant blooms
- Divide every few years to keep plant healthy
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t forget to deadhead spent flowers for continuous bloom
- Avoid heavy clay soil without amendments
- Don’t prune in late fall to protect winter interest
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| 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
Creeping Phlox questions
What zones can Creeping Phlox grow in?
Creeping Phlox is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Creeping Phlox deer resistant?
Yes — Creeping Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Creeping Phlox bloom?
Creeping Phlox typically blooms in mid-spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Creeping Phlox need full sun?
Creeping Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Creeping Phlox drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Creeping Phlox handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
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Grow Creeping 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.
