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Description
Phlox Diffusa, also known as Spreading Phlox, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains and surrounding areas. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide, producing clusters of small, fragrant, pink, white, or lavender flowers in the spring and summer months. The plant’s foliage is needle-like and evergreen, providing year-round color to the garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Diffusa has a low-growing, spreading habit and produces an abundance of small, fragrant flowers in the spring and summer months. The flowers can be pink, white, or lavender and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant’s foliage is evergreen and needle-like, providing a year-round green color to the garden. The leaves are arranged in pairs along the stems and are typically 1-2 inches long.
Care Guide
Phlox Diffusa is relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Phlox Diffusa is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Diffusa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions or if planted too close together. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering. If the plant does become infected with powdery mildew, treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
Phlox Diffusa is native to North America and is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains and surrounding areas. It grows in meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes at elevations of up to 10,000 feet.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phlox Diffusa a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Phlox Diffusa is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can Phlox Diffusa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Phlox Diffusa can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading habit.
Q: Does Phlox Diffusa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Phlox Diffusa is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
Q: How often should Phlox Diffusa be fertilized?
A: Phlox Diffusa should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Phlox Drummondii- Phlox Paniculata- Phlox Subulata- Phlox Stolonifera
References
– “Phlox Diffusa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c855.- “Phlox Diffusa.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/phlox-diffusa-growing-profile-5081728.- “Phlox Diffusa.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/phlox/spreading-phlox-care.htm.
