The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox paniculata, or garden phlox, is an upright herbaceous perennial native to North America, prized for its large, fragrant flower panicles that bloom in mid-summer.
A unique cultivar in the 'Feelings' series, 'Red Feelings' is grown for its dense clusters of colorful, long-lasting red bracts rather than traditional petals. It offers a unique texture and extended season of interest, excellent for cutting.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers good air circulation
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seedlings or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
- Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
- Prune back spent flower stalks in late fall or early spring.
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun for best blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom
- Provide support for tall stems if needed
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall—wait until early spring
- Don’t plant in poorly drained areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' questions
What zones can Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' grow in?
Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' 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 Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings', especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' bloom?
Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' need full sun?
Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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 Garden Phlox 'Red Feelings' 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.


































































