Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Scarlet Flame'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
20 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox subulata 'Scarlet Flame' is a low-growing perennial known for its bright red flowers and ability to spread quickly. This cultivar has particularly vivid red flowers, adding a striking pop of color to rock gardens and ground covers.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-drained soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root within 6 weeks.
- Plant in full sun for best flowering performance.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells in summer.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil and ensure full sun exposure for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer twice a year
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Never neglect pruning after blooming
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
Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox questions
What zones can Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox grow in?
Scarlet Flame Creeping 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 Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox deer resistant?
Yes — Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox bloom?
Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox need full sun?
Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Scarlet Flame Creeping Phlox handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Scarlet Flame Creeping 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.
