Garden Phlox Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' (PBR) (v)
ABOUT
Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' is a striking garden perennial that is highly admired for its colorful and lively appearance. This plant is distinguished by its unique foliage which showcases variegated leaves with a creamy yellow or gold margin that contrasts beautifully against the green center. The leaves are broadly oval-shaped, which adds to the lush texture of the plant. During the blooming season, which typically occurs in the summer months, 'Goldmine' produces a profusion of attractive flowers. These blooms are arranged in large, dense clusters at the ends of the stems and have a classic phlox shape. Each individual flower is a lovely shade of pink or sometimes lavender, and the petals may exhibit a lighter center or a subtle eye-catching pattern. The flowers are not only visually appealing but also possess a delightful fragrance that can perfume the garden air, especially during the warmth of the day or in the early evening. Butterflies and hummingbirds often visit the blooms, adding movement and further interest to the space where 'Goldmine' is planted. The overall aspect of Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' is one of brightness and cheer, with the variegated foliage providing a bold contrast against the green backdrop of a garden even when the plant is not in bloom. This arresting combination of foliage and flowers makes it a popular choice for borders, flower beds, and cottage garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae
Synonyms
Garden Phlox, Summer Phlox, Perennial Phlox, Tall Phlox
Common names
Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine'.
ToxicityTo humans
Garden Phlox is generally not considered toxic to humans. Typically, if ingested, it does not cause serious harm or symptoms of poisoning.
To pets
Garden Phlox is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is not commonly associated with any significant symptoms of poisoning if pets ingest parts of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-4 feet (60-120 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Garden Phlox adds vibrant color and aesthetic appeal to gardens with its clusters of striking flowers.
- Attracts Wildlife: It is known to attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity.
- Fragrance: Garden Phlox often emits a sweet fragrance that can add a pleasant scent to the garden environment.
- Long Blooming: It typically has a long blooming period from mid-summer to early fall, providing color for an extended time.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is considered easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soil types with proper care.
- Border Plants: With their upright habit, they are ideal for borders, adding structure to garden designs.
- Versatility: Suitable for mixed beds, borders, and cottage gardens, Garden Phlox is versatile in landscape design.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, bringing garden beauty indoors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, offering shades of pink and lavender depending on the mordant used.
- The leaves and flowers can be incorporated into potpourri for a visually appealing mix that can also include their subtle fragrance.
- Their vibrant flowers can be used for edible cake decorations or to brighten up a salad, as they are non-toxic.
- Crafted into a floral jelly, the blossoms can be preserved in a sweet, flower-infused spread for bread and pastries.
- Summer phlox can serve as an indicator plant in a garden, as it can signal soil health and the need for fertilization based on its growth and bloom patterns.
- Phlox flower essence is sometimes used in aromatherapy and natural wellness practices to promote relaxation and emotional balance.
- Their tall, sturdy stems make them excellent materials for creating lightweight garden stakes or supports for other plants.
- Dried out summer phlox stalks may be used as small-bore straws in gardening to help direct water straight to the roots of plants.
- Pressed phlox flowers can be used in personalized stationery, bookmarks, or as part of a botanical collection for education or art projects.
- When used in photography, phlox can provide a vibrant, natural backdrop or accent for portraits and macro photography.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGarden Phlox is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityGarden Phlox is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Harmony - The phlox flower, commonly known as garden phlox, often symbolizes harmony because of its lush, clustered blooms that suggest unity and balanced relationships.
- Agreement - Similarly, garden phlox can represent agreement, as its many petals come together to form a whole, symbolizing consensus and cooperation.
- New Beginnings - With its propensity for vigorous growth and blooming, garden phlox can be a symbol of new beginnings and the fresh start that comes with each growing season.
- Proposal - In the language of flowers, giving someone phlox could be an indication of a marriage proposal or the start of a romantic relationship, as it represents the uniting of two individuals.
WaterGarden Phlox should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time. During hot or dry spells, increase watering to twice per week, ensuring each time that the water penetrates the soil deeply to reach the plant's roots. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew, and instead water at the base of the plant. In particularly hot climates or during peak summer heat, check the soil moisture regularly and water as needed to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
LightGarden Phlox thrives in full sun conditions, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering. Place them in a location where they can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight, away from large trees or structures that might cast shade. Partial shade is tolerable, especially in hotter regions, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureGarden Phlox does best in a temperature range between 60°F to 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. It can survive temperatures down to about 40°F but should be protected from frost to prevent damage. During the heat of summer, it is tolerant of higher temperatures as long as it is well-watered.
PruningGarden Phlox should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more blooms, as well as to remove dead or diseased stems. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season encourages more blooms and prolongs the flowering period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGarden Phlox requires well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant.
RepottingGarden Phlox, a perennial, does not typically require repotting as it is usually planted directly in the garden where it can spread.
Humidity & MistingGarden Phlox thrives in average outdoor humidity levels; it does not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade, enrich soil with compost.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePhlox paniculata 'Goldmine', commonly known as Garden Phlox, begins its life cycle as a seed, which under suitable conditions of warmth and moisture, will germinate to produce a small seedling. This seedling grows into a vegetative plant that develops a strong root system and foliage through photosynthesis. During the growing season, typically in the summer, the Garden Phlox enters the flowering stage, producing clusters of fragrant flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will set seed, allowing for dispersal and the potential for new plants if conditions allow. As temperatures cool, Garden Phlox becomes dormant, with above-ground growth dying back in winter in colder climates, while the root system remains alive. Each spring, the plant re-emerges from its roots, beginning the cycle anew with fresh growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Garden Phlox 'Goldmine' is through stem cuttings. This process is best performed in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to cut a 4- to 6-inch piece (10 to 15 cm) from a healthy stem, making sure there are several nodes present. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, and then insert the cutting into a moistened mixture of half perlite and half peat. Cover the container with plastic to maintain humidity and place it in a warm area with indirect light. Roots will typically develop in 4 to 6 weeks, after which the new plants can be transferred to individual pots or planted directly into the garden.
