Species
Phlox divaricataWoodland Phlox8 other cultivars
‘Blue Moon’Woodland Phlox Blue Moon
‘Blue Ribbon’Blue Ribbon Wild Blue Phlox
‘Parksville Beach’Parksville Beach Woodland Phlox
‘Louisiana’Woodland Phlox Louisiana
‘Eco Texas Purple’Eco Texas Purple Woodland Phlox
‘Blue Ribbons’Blue Ribbons Phlox
‘Montrose Tricolor’Montrose Tricolor Phlox
‘Lemon Slice’Lemon Slice Garden Phlox
The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox divaricata 'Blue Elf' is a perennial groundcover with delicate, arching stems and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped blue flowers that bloom in spring, complemented by heart-shaped green foliage.
This cultivar is distinguished by its compact size and vibrant blue blossoms, making it an ideal choice for shaded woodland gardens and borders.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Late spring
In flower about 1 month of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for best vigor.
- Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent legginess.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for best flower display and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote prolonged blooming
- Mulch annually to maintain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize excessively, as it may reduce flowering
- Never disturb roots during the growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Woodland Phlox Blue Elf questions
What zones can Woodland Phlox Blue Elf grow in?
Woodland Phlox Blue Elf 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 Blue Elf deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Woodland Phlox Blue Elf, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Woodland Phlox Blue Elf bloom?
Woodland Phlox Blue Elf typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Woodland Phlox Blue Elf need full sun?
Woodland Phlox Blue Elf does best in part shade.
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 Woodland Phlox Blue Elf 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.