Deep violet-blue flowers open so thickly on this native woodland phlox in late April that they hide the leaves, and the scent is strong. Phlox divaricata 'Blue Moon' grows 10 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide in part shade to full shade, hardy from Zone 4 through Zone 8, and fills out by its second spring.
Bill Cullina found this selection at the New England Wild Flower Society. Color lasts well into May on trailing, tumbling stems.
Woodland phlox, Phlox divaricata, grows wild in rich, moist woods across eastern North America and flowers in spring before the trees fully leaf out. Swallowtails and other early butterflies come to the flowers for nectar. Plants spread slowly by creeping stems into a loose patch.
It fits a shady woodland edge, under deciduous trees, or among ferns and hostas.
Size at Maturity
Height 10"- 12" Spread 12"- 18"
Growing Zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8
Lowest Temperatures -30°F to -20°F
Light Requirements
Part shade to full shade - less than 3 hours of direct sun, or dappled light through the day
Wildlife Benefits
Native Range
AL, AR, DC, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WI, WV
Special Conditions
Fragrant