perennial

Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox

Phlox laphamii 'Blue Buttons'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox divaricata ssp. laphamii, or Woodland Phlox, is a mat-forming, herbaceous perennial native to North American woodlands. It features loose clusters of fragrant, tubular, lavender-blue to violet flowers in spring above lance-shaped green leaves.

This cultivar is distinguished by its compact growth habit and prolific flowering, making it an excellent choice for ground cover or border planting with a striking blue hue.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright blue flowers add striking color to gardens, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and maintenance.

Supports native pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Spring – Late summer

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in spring
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Place in full sun for best flowering
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
Fertilize annually in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Neglect pruning, which can reduce flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid blue borderPollinator-friendly gardenDrought-tolerant perennial bed

Companion Plants

Coreopsis Echinacea SedumLavender Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox questions

What zones can Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox grow in?

Blue Buttons Woodland 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 Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox deer resistant?

Yes — Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox bloom?

Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox need full sun?

Blue Buttons Woodland Phlox does best in part shade.