
Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox
Phlox subulata 'Blue Emerald'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
6 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate once established, drought-tolerant
Humidity
Prefers well-drained, dry to medium humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox subulata 'Emerald Blue' is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial with dense, needle-like, evergreen foliage. It is covered in a profusion of lavender-blue, star-shaped flowers in mid to late spring. This popular cultivar is noted for its vigorous, spreading habit and its profuse floral display of lavender-blue flowers that can completely obscure the foliage in spring.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote rebloom
- Prune lightly after flowering
Don't
- Overwater which can cause root rot ❌
- Use heavy, clay soil without amendment
- Allow soil to stay soggy
- Neglect pruning after bloom
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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
Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox questions
What zones can Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox grow in?
Emerald Blue 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 Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox deer resistant?
Yes — Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox bloom?
Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox typically blooms in mid-spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox need full sun?
Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Emerald Blue 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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