Phlox s. ‘Candy Stripe’ (3.5 inch pot)

Description

Product Description

Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripe’ (3.5-inch pot)a/k/a Moss Phlox.

• Height: 4-6 Inches
• Spread: 10-12 Inches
• Hardiness Zone: 3-9
• Full Sun
• Blooms early Spring
• Low spreading mossy like carpet
• Adapts to wide range of soils
• Creeps over rocks or retaining walls

Fragrant, pink and white stripe flowers atop a dense carpet of needle-like foliage. Colorful and compact, creeping Phlox creates a thick mat of evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage. Some of the foliage remains green throughout the winter in most zones. Spring flowers attract butterflies. Cold-hardy to zone 3, it does benefits with protection from winterburn.

Creeping phlox is a versatile, easy to grow groundcover for full sun. Gritty, neutral soils are prefered and good drainage is essential. It’s a good idea to shear this plant back and clean up any dead foliage in early summer, just after it’s finished blooming. This will produce denser foliage and will encourage it to rebloom. Divisions can be made every few years in summer.

Creeping phlox is a low-growing species which forms a carpet-like mat no taller than 6″. This popular little perennial is best utilized in rocky areas, on slopes, rock gardens, along paths, at foundations, hillsides, and at the edge of beds or low walls (for cascading effect).

Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripe’ is a delightful and vibrant groundcover that brings a burst of color to the spring garden. Here is a closer look at this charming plant:

Appearance and Characteristics:

• Striking Blooms: The most captivating feature of ‘Candy Stripe’ is its flowers. They are star-shaped and boast a unique bi-color pattern: each petal is a lovely rose-pink with a crisp white stripe down the center, creating a delightful candy cane effect.
• Abundant Flowers: In spring, ‘Candy Stripe’ produces a profusion of these eye-catching flowers that practically cover the entire plant, creating a carpet of color.
• Low-Growing and Spreading: Like other creeping phlox varieties, ‘Candy Stripe’ is a low-growing perennial that typically reaches only 4-6 inches in height. It spreads by creeping stems, forming a dense mat of foliage over time.
• Evergreen Foliage: The foliage is evergreen, providing year-round interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The leaves are small, needle-like, and dark green, creating a nice contrast to the colorful flowers.

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: ‘Candy Stripe’ thrives in full sun, which encourages the most abundant flowering. However, it can tolerate some light shade.
• Well-Drained Soil: It prefers well-drained soil, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
• Hardiness Zones: It is typically hardy in USDA zones 3-9, making it a versatile choice for many gardens.

Uses in Landscaping:

• Groundcover: ‘Candy Stripe’ is an excellent choice for a low-maintenance groundcover, especially in sunny areas.
• Rock Gardens: Its love for well-drained soil and its cascading growth habit make it a perfect addition to rock gardens.
• Edging: It can be used to create a colorful border along pathways or flower beds.
• Slopes: It is effective for stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion.

Benefits:

• Eye-catching Flowers: The unique bi-color flowers add a touch of whimsy and brighten up the garden in spring.
• Evergreen Foliage: Provides year-round interest.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.
• Deer Resistant: Deer tend to avoid eating phlox.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Can be Invasive: In ideal conditions, it can spread aggressively, so it may need to be contained.
• Needs Good Drainage: It is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil.

Additional Tips:

• Planting: The best time to plant ‘Candy Stripe’ is in the spring or fall.
• Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for spreading.
• Maintenance: Shear the plants back lightly after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming leggy.

Overall, Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripe’ is a delightful and easy-to-grow groundcover that adds a burst of color to the spring garden. Its unique flowers, evergreen foliage, and low-maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for gardeners.

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