perennialN. America Native

Woodland Phlox Louisiana

Phlox divaricata 'Louisiana'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox divaricata, commonly known as woodland phlox, is a perennial groundcover with spreading stems, fragrant bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue or purple, and lush, lance-shaped foliage that forms a dense carpet in woodland gardens.

The Louisiana cultivar is distinguished by its particularly vibrant and abundant flowering, as well as its robust growth habit that enhances its resilience in shaded or woodland settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides fragrant, lavender flowers in late spring, ideal for shaded borders and woodland gardens.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies, deer resistant.
SpeciesPhlox divaricataWoodland Phlox

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
  3. Place in partial shade for best growth.
  4. Mulch around base to retain moisture.
  5. Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
  6. Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don't let soil dry out completely
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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

Shaded woodland borderFragrant flower bed

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns AstilbeCoral Bells

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Woodland Phlox Louisiana questions

What zones can Woodland Phlox Louisiana grow in?

Woodland Phlox Louisiana 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 Woodland Phlox Louisiana deer resistant?

Yes — Woodland Phlox Louisiana is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Woodland Phlox Louisiana bloom?

Woodland Phlox Louisiana typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Woodland Phlox Louisiana need full sun?

Woodland Phlox Louisiana does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Woodland Phlox Louisiana 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.