Moss phlox Phlox subulata 'Tamaongalei'
ABOUT
Phlox subulata 'Tamaongalei', commonly known as Moss Phlox or Creeping Phlox, is a flowering perennial plant that is renowned for its vibrant and carpet-like spread of foliage and blossoms. The plant displays a dense mat of fine, needle-like leaves that are evergreen, providing a year-round display of lush greenery. During its flowering season, which typically occurs in spring, 'Tamaongalei' is adorned with a profusion of blossoming flowers that cover the foliage almost completely. The flowers can range in hue from pale to vivid shades, possibly featuring star-shaped blooms that create a tapestry of color. The texture of the plant is soft to the touch due to its fine foliage, and the blossoms may have a delicate, slightly perfumed fragrance that attracts butterflies and other pollinators. The overall look of Moss Phlox 'Tamaongalei' is one that evokes a sense of fullness and abundance, making it a stunning groundcover or accent for rock gardens, borders, and along walkways where its sprawling attitude can be fully appreciated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae
Synonyms
Moss Phlox, Creeping Phlox, Mountain Phlox, Moss Pink, Ground Pink, Moss Pinks
Common names
Phlox subulata 'Tamaongalei'.
ToxicityTo humans
Moss phlox is generally not known to be toxic to humans. There are no common reports of poisoning or adverse effects following ingestion of the plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities are possible. If you suspect poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention.
To pets
Moss phlox is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed among commonly toxic plants to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. However, animals can sometimes have unexpected reactions or sensitivities to plants that are typically considered non-toxic. If your pet shows signs of illness after ingesting moss phlox, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Schrub
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Phlox subulata, commonly known as Creeping Phlox, is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are essential for the pollination of nearby plants.
- Low Maintenance: Creeping Phlox is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Ground Cover: With its dense growth habit, Creeping Phlox serves as an effective ground cover, suppressing weeds and preventing soil erosion.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Creeping Phlox is tolerant of drought conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Visual Appeal: Creeping Phlox provides a carpet of vibrant color in the spring with its flowers, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of garden spaces.
- Versatility: This plant is versatile in landscaping, suitable for rock gardens, borders, garden pathways, and as an edging plant.
- Winter Interest: Even when not in bloom, Creeping Phlox's evergreen foliage provides color and texture to the garden during the colder months.
- Erosion Control: Its mat-forming habit helps stabilize slopes and banks, reducing the risk of soil erosion.
- Adaptability: Creeping Phlox adapts well to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil, and it can thrive in both full sun and partial shade environments.
- Long Bloom Time: This plant offers a long flowering season, often starting in early spring and lasting several weeks, providing prolonged visual enjoyment.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Creeping Phlox, a ground cover plant, is often utilized to fill spaces between stepping stones, thanks to its low growth habit and dense foliage.
- In miniature or fairy gardens, Creeping Phlox's small stature and vibrant blooms add a whimsical touch, mimicking a colorful, enchanted landscape.
- Creeping Phlox can serve as a living mulch, suppressing weeds while keeping soil moist and cool due to its mat-forming nature.
- This plant is also used in hanging baskets or over retaining walls for cascades of color, as the stems can spill attractively over edges.
- Crafters sometimes use dried Creeping Phlox flowers to create natural potpourri, adding a splash of color and a soft, pleasant fragrance to their creations.
- Gardeners may encourage beneficial insects like butterflies with Creeping Phlox’s nectar-rich blossoms, promoting pollination in the garden.
- Used in sensory gardens, Creeping Phlox, with its soft texture and bright colors, can provide a visual and tactile experience for visitors.
- Some homeowners plant Creeping Phlox on green roofing projects for its aesthetic appeal and hardiness, enhancing building insulation and biodiversity.
- Erosion control on slopes is another practical use of Creeping Phlox due to its rooting system that helps stabilize soil.
- In floral photography, the dense, vibrant blooms of Creeping Phlox create a captivating, uniform background for close-up shots of insects and other flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Creeping Phlox is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Creeping Phlox is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Harmony - Phlox has a natural tendency to spread and cover ground harmoniously, symbolizing the ability to create balance and peaceful coexistence.
- Unity - The dense clusters of flowers represent coming together as a community or family, emphasizing the strength and beauty in unity.
- Agreement - The consistent flowering of Phlox subulata signifies consensus and the importance of reaching common ground in relationships.
- Partnership - Often used in planting to complement other plants, it symbolizes the value of support and collaboration.
- New Beginnings - As a plant that is often one of the first to bloom in spring, it is emblematic of fresh starts and optimism for the future.
WaterMoss phlox should be watered deeply but infrequently, as the plant prefers well-drained soil. Initially, to establish a strong root system, water the plant every few days. Once established, watering may be reduced to once per week during the growing season, providing about one gallon of water each time. During periods of extreme heat or drought, increase watering frequency slightly. Over the winter months, watering should be minimal, only enough to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry.
LightMoss phlox thrives in full sunlight and should be positioned where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that offers morning sunlight and some protection from the intense afternoon sun may be ideal. Avoiding shaded areas is essential, as too little sunlight can result in fewer blooms and a leggy growth habit.
TemperatureMoss phlox is cold hardy and can withstand minimum winter temperatures down to -20°F; however, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The plant can survive summer temperatures well above 80°F, provided it is not in standing water and has good air circulation.
PruningMoss phlox should be pruned to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. The best time to prune is after the blooming period in late spring or early summer. Deadheading spent flowers can sometimes stimulate a second round of blooming. Every few years, it's beneficial to cut back the entire plant by half to help rejuvenate it and prevent it from becoming too woody.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCreeping Phlox thrives best in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite in equal parts creates an ideal environment. Ensure the soil is loose and enriched with organic matter to promote healthy growth.
RepottingCreeping Phlox is typically a groundcover plant and does not commonly require repotting. It is usually left to spread in the garden rather than grown in containers that warrant frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingCreeping Phlox tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does well in ambient outdoor conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to various environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good air circulation for indoor Creeping Phlox.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny location, well-drained soil, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cyclePhlox subulata 'Tamaongalei', commonly known as Moss Phlox, begins its life cycle with germination, where seeds sprout in well-draining soil with adequate light and warmth. Seedlings emerge and establish a root system, with leaves developing to carry out photosynthesis. The plant enters a vegetative growth stage, growing prostrate stems that may root at nodes, expanding its coverage area. Moss Phlox typically blooms in early spring to late spring, producing vibrant flowers that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant sets seeds which are later dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. Over time, Moss Phlox may spread and form dense mats, occasionally requiring division to manage its growth and rejuvenate vigorous flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: Phlox subulata 'Tamaongalei', commonly known as Moss Phlox, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. The ideal time to take cuttings for propagation is in late spring or early summer, when the plant has plenty of fresh, new growth. To propagate Moss Phlox using stem cuttings, choose a healthy section of the plant that is 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 centimeters), and make a clean cut just below a node, where leaves attach to the stem. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Then, place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cover the container with a plastic bag or place it in a propagation tray with a lid to maintain humidity. In a few weeks, the cutting should root and can eventually be transplanted outdoors.
