Downy Phlox
A cheerful sight in the spring garden, the flowers of Downy Phlox can vary in color from pale pink to intense purple-pink. The colorful blooms attract hummingbirds, and the flower shape provides a perfect landing pad for butterflies …
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
|---|---|
| Soil Moisture | Dry, Medium, Moist |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
| Height | 1' - 2' |
| Bloom Color | Pink |
| Bloom Time | May, June |
| Spacing | 1' |
| Zones | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Root Type | Fibrous |
| Benefits | Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Host Plant |
A cheerful sight in the spring garden, the flowers of Downy Phlox can vary in color from pale pink to intense purple-pink. The colorful blooms attract hummingbirds, and the flower shape provides a perfect landing pad for butterflies and other long tongued pollinators. This early prairie flower is an important source of nectar for Monarch butterflies during their spring migration, as well. Also known as Prairie Phlox, Phlox pilosa is a worthy addition to any garden with dry sand or medium loam soil.
Downy Phlox is a host plant for the "phlox moth" Schinia indiana. The Phlox moth is considered to be rare or critically imperiled throughout its midwestern range. Known occurrences of this moth are limited to protected, managed prairie sites. This beautiful small pink moth, about .5 inches long, is well disguised among the pink flower petals of Downy or Marsh Phlox.
