Mauve-pink flower heads on top of sturdy stems with thick, glossy leaves. The stems have red mottling. Also known as Spotted Phlox (and somewhat confusingly also called Wild Sweet William), Meadow Phlox blooms earlier than Tall Phlox (Phlox paniculata), has darker green leaves and better mildew resistance. Flowers are fragrant and attract many pollinators, including butterflies and hummingbirds. Several moth caterpillars feed on the plants.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Meadow Phlox
Phlox maculata
Plant Type: Herbaceous Perennials
Native Environment: Stream Edge, Wetland
Season of Interest: Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Pink / Rose
Fall Color:
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Medium Sun/Average Shade

Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High, Wet

Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Hummingbird

Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Host, Butterfly / Moth Nectar

Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
24 to
36
inches
Spread:
12 to
18
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
36
inches
Spread: 12 to
18
inches
Size
Height: 24 to
36
inches
Spread: 12 to
18
inches
Typical Landscape Use
Perennial border, cut flower garden, butterfly garden, water garden.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in full sun with moist soil.
Special Features
Special Usage
Fresh Cut Flower, Salt Tolerant
Basic Description
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
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