Contents
Description
Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion, also known as Creeping Phlox, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is a low-growing, mat-forming plant that produces an abundance of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, and lavender. The plant is native to North America and is commonly found in rocky, mountainous regions. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive appearance and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Phlox |
Appearance
Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion has a low-growing, mat-forming habit that reaches a height of 6 inches and a spread of up to 2 feet. The plant produces small, needle-like leaves that are evergreen and remain on the plant throughout the year. The flowers, which bloom in spring, are small and star-shaped, measuring less than an inch in diameter. They come in shades of pink, white, and lavender and are produced in dense clusters, creating a carpet-like effect.
Care Guide
Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. Here are some care tips:- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is heavy, amend it with sand or perlite.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but flowering will be reduced.- Hardiness Zones: Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the plant’s sap, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control infestations.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Improve air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which causes the plant to wilt and die. Ensure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering if necessary.
Habitat
Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion is native to North America and is commonly found in rocky, mountainous regions. It grows well in well-draining soil and full sunlight. The plant is often used in rock gardens, border plantings, and as a groundcover.
Question and Answer
Q: How do I propagate Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion?
A: The plant can be propagated by division in spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, replanting each section in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion grow in partial shade?
A: While the plant prefers full sunlight, it can tolerate some shade. However, flowering may be reduced in shady conditions.
Q: Is Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Phlox Subulata McDaniel’s Cushion:- Phlox Paniculata- Phlox Stolonifera- Phlox Drummondii- Phlox Divaricata
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Phlox subulata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278145&isprofile=0&- The Spruce. (2021, April 19). How to Grow and Care for Phlox Subulata. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/grow-and-care-for-phlox-subulata-2132392
