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Description
Phlox Maculata, commonly known as the meadow phlox, is a native herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is a tall plant that can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a clump-forming growth habit. The plant produces fragrant, showy flowers that bloom in clusters from mid to late summer. Each flower has five petals that come in shades of pink, lavender, purple, and white. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green, and grow up to 4 inches long.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Maculata is a tall, clump-forming plant with lance-shaped, dark green leaves that grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces fragrant, showy flowers that bloom in clusters from mid to late summer. Each flower has five petals that come in shades of pink, lavender, purple, and white. The plant can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Phlox Maculata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Phlox Maculata prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Phlox Maculata prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Amend the soil with compost before planting to improve drainage and fertility.- Sunlight: Phlox Maculata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Phlox Maculata is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Maculata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves wet. If the plant does get powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Phlox Maculata is native to North America and can be found growing in meadows, prairies, and along streams and ponds. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phlox Maculata a good cut flower?
A: Yes, Phlox Maculata is a good cut flower. The fragrant flowers can last up to a week in a vase.
Q: Can Phlox Maculata grow in containers?
A: Yes, Phlox Maculata can grow in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phlox Maculata?
A: Fertilize Phlox Maculata once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Phlox Maculata?
A: Phlox Maculata can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots and shoots.
Related Plants
– Phlox Paniculata- Phlox Drummondii- Phlox Divaricata- Phlox Subulata
References
– “Phlox maculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286352.- “Phlox maculata.” Plant Care Today, 8 June 2021, plantcaretoday.com/phlox-maculata.html.- “Phlox maculata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7302/phlox-maculata/details.
