The Story
Plant Bio
Phlox x procumbens 'Variegata' is a low-growing perennial with spreading stems, featuring variegated lance-shaped leaves and clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink and white.
This cultivar is distinguished by its attractive variegated foliage, which adds visual interest even when not in bloom, making it a popular ground cover for shaded garden areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring
- Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist
- Place in a location with partial to full sun for best blooms
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for rejuvenation
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize annually with balanced fertilizer
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering
- Avoid heavy shade which reduces flowering
- Don’t forget to divide every few years
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Variegated Phlox questions
What zones can Variegated Phlox grow in?
Variegated 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 Variegated Phlox deer resistant?
Yes — Variegated Phlox is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Variegated Phlox bloom?
Variegated 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 Variegated Phlox need full sun?
Variegated Phlox does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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
Grow Variegated 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.