Garden Phlox Phlox paniculata 'Eventide'
ABOUT
Phlox paniculata 'Eventide' is a perennial plant known for its vibrant and showy blossoms. This variety of garden phlox has clusters of fragrant flowers at the top of sturdy stems. The flowers are a stunning shade of violet-purple, which can add a pop of color to any garden space. Each individual flower has a tubular shape with five flaring, flat petals that create a round, full cluster, also known as a panicle. The blooms come together in such a way that they form a dense and eye-catching display. The leaves of the garden phlox 'Eventide' are deep green, providing a lush backdrop for the brightly colored flowers. The foliage is lance-shaped and can grow in a somewhat overlapping pattern, which adds to the fullness of the plant's appearance. The leaves and stems have a slightly hairy texture, which is typical for many phlox varieties. The overall impression of Phlox paniculata 'Eventide' is of a vibrant, robust plant that can bring both color and fragrance to gardens and landscapes. It's a popular choice for borders, garden beds, and as a backdrop for other lower-growing flowering plants. The intense purple hue of the flowers, set against the deep green of the leaves, makes it a focal point wherever it's planted.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae
Synonyms
Garden Phlox, Summer Phlox, Perennial Phlox, Fall Phlox
Common names
Phlox paniculata
ToxicityTo humans
Garden Phlox is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread documentation on the toxicity of Phlox paniculata 'Eventide' to humans, and it is unlikely to cause harm if touched or ingested in small quantities. However, individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation from handling the plant, and it is always prudent to avoid ingesting any plant material unless it is known to be safe and intended for consumption. If any part of the plant is ingested in significant quantities, it is always a good idea to seek medical advice, particularly in the presence of any adverse symptoms.
To pets
Garden Phlox is not known to be toxic to pets. Phlox paniculata 'Eventide' is generally considered safe for dogs, cats, and other household pets. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning associated with Garden Phlox, and it is unlikely that ingestion of this plant will lead to significant health issues for pets. However, individual animals can have unique reactions, and ingestion of non-food items can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset. If a pet ingests a large amount of the plant and shows signs of distress, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Violet
Height
2-4 feet (60-120 cm)
Spread
1-3 feet (30-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Phlox Eventide invites bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are pivotal for pollination and the health of the garden ecosystem.
- Colorful blooms: It offers vibrant purple flowers that add a stunning pop of color to any garden landscape, enhancing visual appeal.
- Fragrant flowers: The flowers emit a pleasant fragrance that can make outdoor spaces more inviting and enjoyable.
- Long blooming period: With a flowering span that lasts several weeks, it ensures a long-lasting display of color throughout the summer season.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of limited rainfall, reducing the need for regular watering.
- Easy to grow: Phlox Eventide is known for being a low-maintenance plant that does not require extensive care to thrive.
- Cut flowers: The blossoms make excellent cut flowers, allowing for beautiful indoor arrangements that can brighten up any room.
- Resistant to deer: The plant is not a preferred choice for deer, which helps in minimizing damage to the garden by these animals.
- Enhances biodiversity: By supporting pollinators, it plays a role in maintaining biodiversity within its growing environment.
- Versatility in landscaping: Suitable for borders, flower beds, and cottage gardens, it allows for versatile design applications in the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Sleep Aid: Some gardeners place Phlox near outdoor sleeping areas, like hammocks, as their scent is said to enhance relaxation and sleep quality.
- Creative Art Medium: The vibrant colors of Phlox petals can be used in flower pressing and crafting botanical prints.
- Luminary: White or light-colored Phlox flowers can be floated in water with candles for a natural, decorative twilight garden feature.
- Educational Tools: Phlox can be used in school gardens to teach children about pollination, as they attract bees and butterflies.
- Photography Subject: Due to their vivid colors and large panicles, Phlox serves as an excellent subject for botanical photography enthusiasts.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The pigments in Phlox petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and yarns.
- Garden Themed Events: Phlox can be incorporated into garden weddings or outdoor parties for decorative table centerpieces or walkway borders.
- Culinary Garnish: Although generally not consumed, the non-toxic flowers of Phlox can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts.
- Companion Planting: Phlox can be strategically planted with vegetables to attract pollinators, benefiting the overall health and yield of a garden.
- Landscape Design: Phlox can be used to create patterns or 'living' drawings in landscape design due to their varied colors and growth habit.
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 and unity: The Phlox paniculata, commonly known as Garden Phlox, often symbolizes harmony and unity due to its clusters of flowers that bloom together in a uniform manner.
- Sweet dreams: Garden Phlox has been associated with the idea of sweet dreams because of its pleasant fragrance, which intensifies in the evening and can create a dreamy garden ambiance.
- Proposal: Garden Phlox can also represent a marriage proposal. Its Latin name "Phlox" is derived from the Greek word meaning "flame," and it has been used in bouquets meant to signify a passionate love or proposal.
- Agreement: The uniform blooming of its flowers also makes it a symbol of agreement or consensus, which can be relevant in social or community contexts.
WaterGarden Phlox should be watered deeply once a week, providing about an inch of water each time. During hot or dry periods, increase watering to twice per week. Consistency is key; Garden Phlox thrives with regular moisture but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. If possible, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots and minimize moisture on the foliage. Ensure that the plant receives around 0.5 to 0.75 gallons of water per week, adjusting for rainfall.
LightGarden Phlox performs best in full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for Garden Phlox would be in a location that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, but it can tolerate some afternoon shade. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as lack of sunlight can result in fewer blooms and a higher susceptibility to diseases.
TemperatureGarden Phlox is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers daytime temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can survive temperatures as low as 40 degrees and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid extreme fluctuations in temperature, as this can stress the plant.
PruningGarden Phlox should be pruned to promote vigorous growth and prevent disease. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming. After the first killing frost, cut back the plant to 1 to 2 inches above the soil line to clean up the area and minimize overwintering fungi. Pruning is typically done annually, after the blooming cycle has completed, typically in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGarden Phlox thrives in a well-draining soil enriched with compost or other organic matter, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0 being ideal for its growth.
RepottingGarden Phlox, being a perennial garden plant, does not typically require repotting as it is not generally grown in containers.
Humidity & MistingGarden Phlox does not have specific humidity requirements and can thrive in the ambient outdoor humidity levels found in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, room to grow, and good air circulation for indoor Garden Phlox.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, rich soil, and space for airflow for outdoor Garden Phlox.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePhlox paniculata 'Eventide', commonly known as Garden Phlox, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, once sown in fertile, well-drained soil, will germinate typically in the spring under the right temperature and moisture conditions. The seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with characteristic lance-shaped leaves, growing vegetatively during the first season. As it matures, the plant forms a strong root system and multiple stems that lead to bushy growth. After experiencing a period of winter dormancy, it enters its flowering stage in the subsequent summer, producing tall, fragrant clusters of purple flowers that attract pollinators. Once pollination occurs, the flowers produce seeds that complete the reproductive cycle before the plant senesces in the fall. With proper care, Garden Phlox can perennialize, undergoing this cycle annually for several years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Phlox paniculata 'Eventide', commonly known as Garden Phlox, is best propagated by division, which should ideally be done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not in full bloom. The most popular method involves carefully digging up an established clump and gently separating it into smaller sections with at least a few shoots and a healthy amount of root. Each division should be replanted at the same depth it was growing at originally, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. This technique not only propagates the plant but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous, ensuring the continued health and beauty of the Garden Phlox in the garden.
