
Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels'
Phlox subulata 'Violet Pinwheels'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
5 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox subulata, commonly known as moss phlox or creeping phlox, is a low-growing perennial with dense mats of evergreen foliage and vibrant, star-shaped flowers in spring, often in shades of pink, purple, or white. The cultivar Violet Pinwheels is distinguished by its striking violet-purple flowers that resemble delicate pinwheels, creating a vivid ground cover that blooms profusely in early spring.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Provide full sun for optimal blooming.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't fertilize with high nitrogen in late summer
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
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 'Violet Pinwheels' questions
What zones can Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' grow in?
Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' 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 'Violet Pinwheels' deer resistant?
Yes — Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' bloom?
Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' 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 Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' need full sun?
Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Creeping Phlox 'Violet Pinwheels' handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Phlox to compare

Garden Phlox
Phlox paniculata 'Mix'

Garden Phlox 'Rene Duval'
Phlox paniculata 'Rene Duval'

Prairie Phlox
Phlox pilosa

Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe'

Sherbet Cocktail Garden Phlox
Phlox paniculata 'Sherbet Cocktail'

Emerald Blue Moss Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Emerald Blue'
