Contents
Description
Phlox Paniculata David is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to North America and grows up to a height of 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. The plant produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. Its foliage is dark green in color and is lance-shaped with a pointed tip. Phlox Paniculata David is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to their garden as it is a preferred nectar source for them.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Paniculata David has a bushy and upright growth habit. It produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that are 1-2 inches in diameter. The flowers have five petals that are fused at the base and form a tube-like structure. The foliage is lance-shaped with a pointed tip and is dark green in color. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are about 2-5 inches long. The plant grows up to a height of 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
Care Guide
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Phlox Paniculata David prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom well.
- Hardiness Zones: Phlox Paniculata David is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Paniculata David is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing the foliage to turn yellow and eventually die. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes white powdery spots on the leaves. Remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. The roots rot and the plant wilts and dies. Improve the drainage and reduce watering to prevent it.
Habitat
Phlox Paniculata David is native to North America and can be found in meadows, prairies, and open woods. It grows best in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Phlox Paniculata David a good choice for a butterfly garden?
A: Yes, Phlox Paniculata David is an excellent choice for a butterfly garden as it is a preferred nectar source for them.Q: How often should I water Phlox Paniculata David?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Q: What is the best time to plant Phlox Paniculata David?
A: The best time to plant Phlox Paniculata David is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild.Q: How do I propagate Phlox Paniculata David?
A: Phlox Paniculata David can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and foliage.
Related Plants
- Phlox Paniculata
- Phlox Subulata
- Phlox Divaricata
- Phlox Stolonifera
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Phlox paniculata ‘David’
- Gardening Know How: Phlox Paniculata Care – How To Grow Garden Phlox
- University of Illinois Extension: Garden Phlox
