Species
Phlox divaricataWoodland Phlox7 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox divaricata, commonly known as Woodland Phlox, is a perennial groundcover with spreading stems, fragrant star-shaped flowers in shades of blue and purple, and lush green foliage that forms a dense carpet.
The 'Montrose Tricolor' cultivar is distinguished by its variegated leaves featuring cream, green, and pink hues, providing multi-season interest.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-spring – Late spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Pro Tip
Provide full sun for vibrant foliage and abundant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season
- Do not neglect deadheading for continuous flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Montrose Tricolor Phlox questions
What zones can Montrose Tricolor Phlox grow in?
Montrose Tricolor 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 Montrose Tricolor Phlox deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Montrose Tricolor Phlox, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Montrose Tricolor Phlox bloom?
Montrose Tricolor Phlox typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Montrose Tricolor Phlox need full sun?
Montrose Tricolor Phlox does best in part shade.
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
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Montrose Tricolor 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.