Garden Phlox Phlox paniculata 'Eva Foerster'
ABOUT
The Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum' is commonly known as Garden Phlox. It boasts an attractive form with a profusion of vibrant blooms. Its flowers are an eye-catching pink with a lighter center and a dark eye, presented in large, rounded clusters that make for a striking display. The blossoms emit a delightful fragrance, adding an olfactory dimension to its allure. The foliage of the Garden Phlox is a lush green, forming a complimentary backdrop to the colorful flowers. Each individual leaf is pointed and smooth, with a slightly glossy finish that catches the light. Robust and bushy in its growth habit, the Garden Phlox provides a bold and colorful presence in the garden, with its vivid blooms attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae
Synonyms
Garden Phlox, Summer Phlox, Perennial Phlox, Tall Phlox
Common names
Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum', Phlox paniculata 'Eva Foerster'.
ToxicityTo humans
Garden Phlox, the common name of Phlox paniculata 'Eva Foerster', is not considered toxic to humans. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from ingesting any part of this garden phlox plant, as it is typically seen as a non-toxic species for human interaction.
To pets
Garden Phlox, the common name of Phlox paniculata 'Eva Foerster', is not known to be toxic to pets either. This plant does not have a reputation for causing poisoning in animals, so there should not be any symptoms related to the ingestion of the garden phlox by pets. However, it's always advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants in general, and consult with a veterinarian if any suspicious symptoms arise after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators - Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum' lures bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are beneficial for garden pollination.
- Colorful blooms - The plant produces vibrant pink flowers that add a splash of color to gardens from mid to late summer.
- Fragrance - The flowers emit a sweet fragrance that can be enjoyed when placed in close proximity to outdoor living spaces.
- Cut flowers - Its long stems and lasting blooms make it ideal for fresh bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Drought tolerance - Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Improved garden biodiversity - It helps support a diverse ecosystem by providing habitat and food sources for various insects and birds.
- Ease of care - The garden phlox is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a good choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Perennial growth - As a perennial, it comes back year after year, providing long-term presence and structure in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography: Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum' can be an excellent subject for close-up photography or botanical illustrations due to its bright and dense flower clusters.
- Educational Resource: Garden Phlox can be used in educational settings such as schools and botanical gardens to teach about plant biology, pollination, and horticulture practices.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers of the Garden Phlox can add a pop of color to salads and desserts when used as an edible garnish, though they should be confirmed as safe to eat beforehand.
- Artistic Inspiration: The bright, vivid colors of the Garden Phlox can serve as inspiration for artists and designers in creating color palettes and motifs for their work.
- Fragrance Source: The scented varieties of Garden Phlox may be used in making potpourris or used as a natural air-freshening agent in small spaces.
- Dye Production: The petals of the Garden Phlox can be used in the natural dyeing process to impart color to fabrics or crafts.
- Memory Gardens: Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum' can be included in memory or tribute gardens as a way to honor and remember loved ones, as specific plants can hold personal or symbolic significance.
- Fairy Gardens: The vibrant flowers of the Garden Phlox make them suitable for fairy gardens and other miniature garden settings where they add a touch of whimsy and color.
- Event Decorations: Garden Phlox can be used in floral arrangements and decorations for special events such as weddings, parties, or community gatherings.
- Winter Interest: In cold climates, the dried seed heads of Garden Phlox can provide textural interest in the garden during the winter months when flowers are scarce.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Garden Phlox is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Garden Phlox is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Harmony - Phlox plants are known for their harmonious clusters of flowers, symbolizing unity and agreement.
- Proposal - In the language of flowers, phlox often represents a proposal or an offer of marriage, making it a symbol of commitment.
- Sweet Dreams - Phloxes are sometimes associated with sweet dreams or wishes, and gifting phlox can represent a wish for pleasant thoughts.
- Solidarity - The tightly-bunched blooms of the summer phlox are seen as a symbol of solid relationships and strong foundations.
- Agreement - Phlox, in general, signifies agreement, suggesting a mutual understanding or consensus between people.
- New Beginnings - The perennial nature of Phlox paniculata, as it returns each year, can symbolize renewal and new opportunities.
WaterGarden Phlox requires consistent moisture, particularly during the summer months. Water this plant deeply once a week, aiming for about an inch of water each time which equates to about 0.62 gallons for an average-sized plant. During particularly hot or dry periods, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. The water should be applied directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. It's important not to overwater, as Garden Phlox does not like to be in soggy soil.
LightGarden Phlox thrives in conditions where it can receive full sun for at least six hours a day. The ideal spot for this plant is in a garden bed that has unobstructed exposure to sunlight. However, it can tolerate partial shade, especially in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day in warmer climates. Ensure that the plant is placed in an area where it can enjoy morning sunlight, which is less intense and beneficial for its growth.
TemperatureGarden Phlox is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but grows best in an environment where the temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum summer temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure optimal growth and flowering, maintain a consistent temperature range throughout the growing season if possible.
PruningPruning Garden Phlox is essential for maintaining its health and promoting vigorous growth. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage further flowering. After the first killing frost in the fall or in early spring before new growth starts, cut back the stems to about one or two inches above the ground. Pruning at these times can help prevent disease and encourages a tidy growth habit.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGarden Phlox thrives in moist, well-drained soil enriched with compost or manure with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of one part garden soil, one part compost, and a handful of perlite or sand can create an ideal environment for this perennial.
RepottingGarden Phlox, being a perennial garden plant, does not typically require repotting as it is usually planted directly into garden beds. If grown in containers, repotting every 2-3 years in spring can refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingGarden Phlox does well in average garden conditions and does not require any special humidity conditions; it is tolerant of the typical outdoor humidity levels found in its growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good airflow, and room to grow.
Outdoor
Choose sunny spot, enrich soil, provide space, water well.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePhlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum', commonly known as Garden Phlox, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in early spring when soil temperatures warm up. The seedlings grow into vegetative plants, developing a strong root system and foliage during the spring and early summer. As the plant matures, it starts the reproductive phase, producing clusters of fragrant, pink or magenta flowers by mid to late summer, attracting pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers develop into small fruit capsules containing seeds that mature by late summer to fall. The plant then enters a period of senescence as temperatures drop; it dies back to the ground, entering dormancy over the winter. The following spring, Garden Phlox can re-emerge from its root system to complete the cycle, or new plants can grow from the fallen seeds if conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Garden Phlox is by division. This is typically done in early spring or early fall, when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig around the phlox clump and lift it from the ground, ensuring as much of the root system is intact as possible. Wash or shake off excess soil and identify natural divisions or clumps. Using a sharp knife or spade, cut through the root ball to separate into smaller clumps, each with several shoots and a healthy section of roots. Replant these divisions at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them.
