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Description
Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe, also known as Creeping Phlox, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial plant that is native to the eastern and central parts of the United States. It is a popular choice among gardeners due to its showy, candy-striped flowers and its ability to spread quickly and easily.This plant can grow up to 6 inches in height and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The Candy Stripe variety of Phlox Subulata produces small, fragrant flowers that bloom in early spring and last until early summer. The flowers are pink and white striped, and they grow in dense clusters that cover the entire plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are small, narrow, and needle-like, and they are evergreen, meaning they stay on the plant year-round. The flowers are small, but they grow in dense clusters that cover the entire plant. They are pink and white striped, and they have a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure it stays healthy and blooms to its fullest potential.Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Plant Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including root rot, powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent these issues, ensure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and receives proper watering and fertilization. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe is native to the eastern and central parts of the United States and can be found growing in rocky or sandy soils in open fields, along roadsides, and in woodland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is big enough to accommodate its spreading habit.Q: How often should Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.Q: What is the best time of year to plant Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe?
A: The best time to plant this plant is in the spring or fall.Q: How often should Phlox Subulata Candy Stripe be watered?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
Related Plants
- Phlox Paniculata
- Phlox Stolonifera
- Phlox Drummondii
References
- “Creeping Phlox: Plant Care and Collection of Varieties.” Garden.org, National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/group/creeping_phlox/.
- “Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripe’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276561.
- “Phlox subulata.” The National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/group/phlox-subulata/.
