Size	#1
Height	25-30"
Spacing	12-18"
Hardiness	Zones 3-9
Exposure	Full sun to partial shade
Foliage	Green, lance-shaped
Flower	Pure white
Bloomtime	July - September

Botanical: Phlox paniculata 'David'

Common: Garden Phlox

Family: Polemoniaceae

General Characteristics: Butterflies, bumblebees and an occasional hummingbird may find phlox irresistible, but its charms aren't restricted to these daytime pollinators. Hawkmoths may hover next to its blossoms from late afternoon to dusk. On summer evenings, as the sweet scent of phlox drifts across the garden, night moths may be drawn to the flowers. Although many phlox varieties are attractive to moths, those with pale-colored or white blossoms are true stars after dark. Fragrant, tubular flowers (1/2" to 1" diameter) with long corolla tubes and five flat petal-like lobes are pure white. Individual flowers are densely arranged in large, terminal, pyramidal clusters (panicles to 6-12" long) in summer atop stiff, upright stems which seldom need staking. Long mid to late summer bloom sometimes extends into early fall. Narrow, opposite, pointed, lance-shaped leaves (to 5" long). The name phlox is derived from the Greek word for flame.

Pests or Diseases: Phlox is not always an easy plant to grow. Powdery mildew and root rot can be serious problems. Spider mites and plant bugs can also be a problem, particularly in hot, dry conditions.

Planting Instructions: Dig a hole large enough to encompass the roots without bending or circling. Set the plant in place so the crown (part of the plant where the root meets the stem) is about 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Cover with soil to the original soil surface and water thoroughly. Grow in moderately fertile, medium wet, well-drained soil in full sun to light shade. Best in full sun. Prefers rich, moist, organic soils. Needs good air circulation (space well and thin out stems as needed) to help combat potential powdery mildew problems. Intolerant of drought and needs to be watered in dry spells. Avoid overhead watering however. Appreciates a summer mulch which helps keep the root zone cool. Remove faded flower panicles to prolong bloom period and to prevent unwanted self-seeding.