PHLOX drummondii (Annual Phlox, Pastel Shades Mix)

PHLOX drummondii (Annual Phlox, Pastel Shades Mix) is a popular annual flowering plant known for its colorful and fragrant blooms. The Pastel Shades Mix is a specific variety that features a range of soft and delicate hues. This species is native to Texas and Mexico but is widely cultivated as an annual in various regions.

Annual Phlox is a compact annual plant that typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) and spreads about 6 to 9 inches (15 to 23 cm). It has lance-shaped, medium green leaves that are arranged opposite each other along the stems. Phlox drummondii is commonly grown from seeds and is a popular choice for borders, containers, and mass plantings. Sow the seeds directly into the garden bed after the last frost or start them indoors a few weeks earlier for an earlier bloom. Provide a well-prepared soil bed, keep the soil moist during germination, and thin the seedlings to provide adequate spacing for optimal growth.

The flowers of Phlox drummondii are small and clustered in dense, flat-topped inflorescences. The Pastel Shades Mix variety produces flowers in a range of soft pastel colors, including shades of pink, lavender, lilac, and white. The blooms are five-petaled and have a pleasant fragrance. Annual Phlox typically blooms from late spring to early summer and continues flowering into early fall, depending on the climate and growing conditions. Regular deadheading can help promote continuous blooming.

The Pastel Shades Mix of Annual Phlox is often used to create soft, romantic displays in garden borders, rock gardens, or cottage-style gardens. It can also be grown in containers to add color to patios or balconies. Annual Phlox, particularly the Pastel Shades Mix, is cherished for its profusion of delicate, pastel-colored flowers that add a charming touch to garden landscapes.