Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

common name:

Woodland phlox, wild blue phlox

scientific name:

Phlox

divaricata

Purple flowers with green leaves in a garden bed.

Woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata) in bloom, showcasing soft blue-lavender flowers, South of the Keim Hall entrance on April 12th, 2026.

Image Creadit:

Trey Lamkins, Graduate Research Assistant

Cluster of vibrant purple flowers blooming in a garden with mulch-covered ground.

Woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata) is a native herbaceous perennial valued for its delicate, fragrant spring flowers and ability to thrive in partially shaded landscapes. In mid to late spring, it produces clusters of soft blue to lavender blooms that create a carpet-like effect in woodland settings. This species prefers moist, well-drained soils and performs best in part shade, making it an excellent choice for understory plantings, shaded borders, and naturalized areas.

Charecteristics

Plant type:

Herbaceous perennial

Hardiness Zones:

3, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 7, 8

Light Needs:

Part Shade

Water Needs:

Moist

Space Requirements:

12 inches – 3 feet

Height Requirements:

Less than 2 feet

Spread Requirements:

1–2 feet

Bloom Color:

Lavender

Bloom Time:

Spring

Leaf Color:

Green

Wildlife Attraction:

Butterflies

Uses:

Ground Cover

Varieties

‘Louisiana Blue’

‘Louisiana Blue’ is a popular selection known for its deeper blue flower color and more vigorous growth compared to the species. It spreads readily to form dense colonies, making it especially effective as a groundcover in shaded or woodland landscapes.