Phlox subulata facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Quick facts for kids Moss phlox

Scientific classification
Genus:	Phlox
Species:	subulata

above: cherry tree; below: Phlox subulata in an ornamental planting at Yachounomori Garden in Annaka, Gunma

Phlox subulata (creeping phlox, moss phlox, moss pink, or mountain phlox) is a species of flowering plant in the family Polemoniaceae, native to eastern and central USA, and widely cultivated. Growing to about 13 cm (5 in) high at most and covering a 50 cm (20 in) wide area, it is an evergreen perennial forming mats or cushions of hairy, linear leaves. The small, five-petaled flowers bloom in rose, mauve, blue, white, or pink in late spring to early summer.

The Latin specific epithet subulata means awl- or needle-shaped.

The plant is cultivated as a front-of-border or groundcover plant. It requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is very hardy, tolerating temperatures down to −20 °C (−4 °F), and is suitable for hardiness zones USDA 3 to 9.

The cultivar 'McDaniel's Cushion', with bright pink flowers, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

The Native American Mahuna peoples use the plant internally for rheumatism.

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