Phlox paniculata 'Dunbar Creek'
perennialN. America Native

Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Dunbar Creek'

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlox paniculata is an herbaceous perennial known for its dense clusters (panicles) of fragrant, tubular flowers, set against lush, green foliage in an upright, bushy growth habit.

Selected for its excellent resistance to powdery mildew, 'Dunbar Creek' features large panicles of fragrant, lavender-pink flowers with a darker magenta eye. It is a vigorous and long-blooming cultivar.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides vibrant, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden beauty and ecological health.
Practical UsesEasy to grow and maintain, suitable for borders, cut flowers, and perennial beds.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.
SpeciesPhlox paniculataGarden Phlox

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
  3. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
  4. Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth.
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Monitor for pests and treat as necessary during summer.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for best blooms and ensure good drainage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
  • Prune to shape and remove dead stems ❌
  • Apply fertilizer in spring for vigorous growth
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t fertilize late in the season
  • Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
  • Do not ignore pest signs

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with pink flowersPollinator-friendly garden bed

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox questions

What zones can Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox grow in?

Dunbar Creek Garden 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 Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox deer resistant?

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

When does Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox bloom?

Dunbar Creek 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 Dunbar Creek Garden Phlox need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Dunbar Creek Garden 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.