Species

Phlox paniculataGarden Phlox

65 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Becky Towe'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox paniculata is an upright herbaceous perennial native to North America. It forms clumps of stiff stems bearing pointed, oval leaves and large, domed panicles of fragrant, five-petaled flowers in summer.

The 'Becky Towe' cultivar is distinguished by its striking variegated foliage; each green leaf has a broad, irregular margin of creamy-yellow to gold. It produces large terminal clusters of fragrant, hot pink to magenta flowers with white starburst centers from mid to late summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant summer blooms and fragrant foliage, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.

SpeciesPhlox paniculataGarden Phlox

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

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage and full sun for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Prune to shape after flowering
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater, causing root rot ❌
Neglect pruning after bloom
Plant in poorly drained soil ❌
Use high nitrogen fertilizer late in the season ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful perennial borderFragrant flower bedPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

Shasta daisy Coreopsis Echinacea SalviaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox questions

What zones can Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox grow in?

Becky Towe Variegated 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 Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox bloom?

Becky Towe Variegated 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 Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox need full sun?

Becky Towe Variegated Garden Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.