Creeping Phlox

Phlox stolonifera, creeping phlox, is a low semi-evergreen groundcover native to the Appalachian mountains, reaching six to twelve inches. It spreads by above-ground runners into dense mats of oval leaves, and in mid-spring loose clusters of five-petalled flowers in blue, lavender, pink or white rise on short stems above the foliage. Unlike the moss phlox often confused with it, this is a woodland plant that wants shade and moisture rather than a hot dry rock garden — the two are frequently mis-sold for each other. It roots as it runs, so an established patch knits into a solid weed-suppressing carpet without becoming aggressive.