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Description
Phlox Stansburyi, also known as Stansbury’s phlox, is a perennial plant that is native to the western United States. It grows up to 1 foot tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. The plant produces a cluster of small, fragrant flowers that bloom in shades of pink or lavender from May to July. The plant is known for its hardiness and adaptability to various soil types and growing conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Stansburyi has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 2 inches long. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and are covered in fine hairs. The plant produces a cluster of small, fragrant flowers that bloom in shades of pink or lavender. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in a flat-topped cluster. The plant grows up to 1 foot tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Phlox Stansburyi is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:- Water: Phlox Stansburyi prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in midsummer.- Soil: Phlox Stansburyi prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types.- Sunlight: Phlox Stansburyi prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Phlox Stansburyi is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Stansburyi is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by keeping the plant well-ventilated and avoiding overhead watering. The plant may also be affected by spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Phlox Stansburyi is native to the western United States, where it can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in open woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant is adapted to a wide range of growing conditions and can tolerate both wet and dry soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phlox Stansburyi a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Phlox Stansburyi is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phlox Stansburyi?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the application in midsummer.
Q: Can Phlox Stansburyi tolerate drought?
A: While the plant prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: Does Phlox Stansburyi spread aggressively?
A: No, Phlox Stansburyi is a slow-spreading plant that is not invasive.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Phlox Stansburyi:- Phlox Drummondii- Phlox Paniculata- Phlox Subulata- Phlox Divaricata
References
– “Phlox stansburyi”, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273925- “Phlox stansburyi”, USDA Plants Database, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PHST- “Stansbury’s Phlox”, Wyoming Native Plant Society, http://www.wynps.org/plantofthemonth/2007/july07.html
