Species

Phlox paniculataGarden Phlox

65 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Red Riding Hood'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox paniculata 'Red Riding Hood' is a perennial shrub with bushy growth, featuring lance-shaped green leaves and clusters of vibrant red, tubular flowers that bloom in dense panicles during summer and fall.

This cultivar is prized for its striking deep red flowers that provide a bold splash of color in the garden, along with its excellent disease resistance and long-lasting blooms.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden beauty.

Deadheading prolongs flowering; dividing maintains plant vigor.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.

SpeciesPhlox paniculataGarden Phlox

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

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seedlings or cuttings into well-prepared soil, spacing 18 inches apart.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist during establishment.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring or fall to maintain health.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Deadhead to promote more flowers
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering in poorly drained soil ❌
Don’t fertilize excessively, which can cause floppy stems
Refrain from neglecting deadheading

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Pinch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with vibrant colorPollinator-friendly flower bedInformal cottage garden

Companion Plants

Echinacea Rudbeckia Coreopsis SalviaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox questions

What zones can Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox grow in?

Red Riding Hood 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 Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox bloom?

Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox 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 Red Riding Hood Garden Phlox need full sun?

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