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Woodland Phlox

Crystal Bridges will close early at 4 PM on Friday, May 3, to prepare for the VIP Premiere of The Portal: An Art Experience by Jewel. Lunch will be served in the Great Hall on Friday. The Coffee Bar and select galleries will close at 3 PM.
Woodland Phlox

Common Name: Woodland Phlox

Botanical Name: Phlox divaricata

Woodland phlox with purple blooms
Woodland phlox

Plant family: Polemoniaceae

Location: Art Trail, East Terrace Switchback, Rock Ledge Trail, Tulip Tree Trail

Growing zone: 3-9

Height: 12-14 in.

Spread: 12-16 in.

Bloom time: May, June

Bloom description: Petals are lavender-blue or violet and make a huge impact in large numbers.

Leaf type: The dark-green, rounded foliage creeps on the ground and can persist throughout the summer in proper conditions.

Garden uses: This spring ephemeral is best used in large drifts. We use them as border plants in large masses. When they colonize, they form an amazing lavender-blue cloud. This is a great alternative for any non-native annual species. It likes rich woodlands with part sun to shade and moist soil. This species is seen state-wide in Arkansas.

Wildlife benefits: Flowers are visited by several pollinator species.