perennialN. America Native

Lemon Slice Garden Phlox

Phlox divaricata 'Lemon Slice'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox paniculata 'Lemon Slice' is an upright perennial known for its striking variegated foliage with bright yellow margins and clusters of fragrant white flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its stable, brightly variegated foliage that provides interest all season, and its fragrant white flowers. It also shows good mildew resistance.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides fragrant purple flowers that attract pollinators and add color to borders.
Practical UsesResistant to deer and rabbits, tolerant of drought and clay soils.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and beneficial insects.
SpeciesPhlox divaricataWoodland Phlox

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

28 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
  2. Keep soil consistently moist during germination
  3. Transplant seedlings after 4–6 weeks when established
  4. Place in well-drained soil with full to partial sun
  5. Water regularly during first growing season
  6. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and partial shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not fertilize heavily late in the season
  • Refrain from disturbing roots during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with purple bloomsWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Shasta daisy CoreopsisSalviaEchinaceaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lemon Slice Garden Phlox questions

What zones can Lemon Slice Garden Phlox grow in?

Lemon Slice 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 Lemon Slice Garden Phlox deer resistant?

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

When does Lemon Slice Garden Phlox bloom?

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

Does Lemon Slice Garden Phlox need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Lemon Slice 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.