Garden Phlox Phlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange'
ABOUT
The 'Prince of Orange' is a variety of garden phlox known for its distinctive and showy flowers. This plant is highly ornamental, with its most remarkable feature being the vibrant orange-pink blooms that grace its top. The flowers are arranged in large, dense clusters, often referred to as panicles, which emit a delightful fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden. Its petals display a rich gradient of color, beginning with a deep, almost salmon-orange hue at the center and then fading to a softer, subtler shade towards the edges. The blossoms have a subtle, velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the glossy green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped and form a backdrop that makes the flower color pop even more. The plant itself has a bushy growth habit, providing an abundant and lush presence in the garden. The foliage maintains its vibrancy throughout the season, creating a pleasant contrast against the flowers as they go through their blooming cycle. Overall, the 'Prince of Orange' garden phlox is a striking perennial plant that adds a splash of warm color and a touch of elegance to any landscape design. Its floral clusters, attractive light green foliage, and inviting fragrance make it a favorite among gardeners looking to create a visually stunning and sensory-rich garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polemoniaceae.
Synonyms
Garden Phlox, Summer Phlox, Fall Phlox, Perennial Phlox.
Common names
Phlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange'.
ToxicityTo humans
Garden phlox is generally not considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence of it causing systemic toxicity when ingested, and it is not known for causing serious side effects. However, like many plants, it may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities and skin irritation in some individuals who are sensitive or allergic to it.
To pets
Garden phlox is not typically listed as a toxic plant for pets. It is not known to contain any toxic compounds that would cause serious harm to dogs, cats, or other household pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion of large amounts could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea due to the ingestion of an unfamiliar substance. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of garden phlox and is showing symptoms of distress, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
2-4 feet (60-120cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Phlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange' is known for attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects, contributing to pollination in the garden.
- Colorful Blooms: Offers vibrant orange flowers that add a splash of color to any garden space, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance visual appeal.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial plant, it returns year after year, reducing the need for annual replanting and providing long-term value for gardeners.
- Fragrance: The blooms emit a pleasant fragrance which can make outdoor areas more enjoyable and inviting.
- Cottage Garden Appeal: Perfect for a cottage garden look, providing an informal charm with its lush and colorful flower clusters.
- Cut Flower Use: The stems of Garden Phlox can be cut for bouquets and indoor floral arrangements, retaining their color and shape well in vases.
- Ease of Care: Generally low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making it an appealing choice for both novice and expert gardeners.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, flowerbeds, and as a background plant, providing structure and depth.
- Long Blooming Period: Phlox paniculata has a relatively long flowering period during the summer, keeping the garden lively and colorful for an extended time frame.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The flowers of the Garden Phlox can be used to create natural dyes for coloring textiles, with potential variation in color depending on the mordant used.
- Photography: Due to their vibrant colors, Garden Phlox flowers are often used as subjects in floral photography and macro photography, helping amateurs and professionals alike to create stunning portfolios.
- Educational Tool: Garden Phlox can be used in educational settings such as schools or nature centers to teach children about pollination and the lifecycle of plants.
- Art Supplies: The petals of Garden Phlox can be pressed and used in the creation of botanical art, such as handmade paper or bookmarks, providing a natural decorative element.
- Culinary Decoration: The flowers of the Garden Phlox, though not commonly consumed, can be used as an edible decoration for cakes and desserts in case of a flower shortage.
- Floral Water: Infusing water with Garden Phlox petals can create subtly scented floral water which can be used for cosmetic purposes or as a room freshener.
- Fragrance: While not a common use, the scent of Garden Phlox flowers can be captured in homemade potpourris or infused oils for a light, floral fragrance in homes.
- Companion Planting: Garden Phlox can be used as companion plants in gardens to attract pollinators that can enhance the growth and health of surrounding plants.
- Crafting: The stems and flowers of Garden Phlox can be used in crafts, such as wreath making and floral arrangements, especially for seasonal decor.
- Garden Design: Beyond its common use, Garden Phlox can be utilized in landscape design to create patterns or borders due to its range of colors and heights.
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: Phlox, in general, symbolizes harmony and the unity of souls, as its flowers are often seen growing together in clusters, representing tight-knit relationships.
- Proposal: With its eye-catching color, 'Prince of Orange' suggests a bold proposal or proposition, as orange often signifies enthusiasm and excitement.
- New Beginnings: The 'Prince of Orange' variety can represent new ventures or fresh starts, as the intense orange hue is associated with the vibrant energy of creation and beginnings.
- Passion: The vividness of the orange blossoms also alludes to deep passion and a zest for life, common with the color's warm and dynamic connotations.
- Friendship: Like many flowers, phlox often symbolizes friendship, and the 'Prince of Orange' enhances this meaning with its warm, inviting color that suggests a welcoming and open heart.
WaterGarden Phlox should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time. During hot spells or drought conditions, increase the frequency to twice a week, thoroughly soaking the soil to ensure the roots receive adequate moisture. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant using a soaker hose or drip irrigation to keep the foliage dry. During the spring and fall, reduce the amount of water as the plant requires less moisture due to cooler temperatures.
LightGarden Phlox thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. A location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal for the most vigorous growth and abundant flowering. However, in regions with hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent stress and fading of the flower colors.
TemperatureGarden Phlox is hardy in a wide range of temperatures and can survive in a temperature range from -30 degrees Fahrenheit to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing conditions for the plant are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the plant is mulched well to protect the roots from extreme cold during winter in climates near the lower end of its hardiness range.
PruningGarden Phlox should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and to maintain its shape. Prune back the foliage in early spring to promote vigorous new stems and again after the initial flowering to encourage a second bloom. Deadheading spent flowers during the growing season will also help to prolong the blooming period and prevent the plant from self-seeding excessively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGarden Phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange') requires well-drained soil with a good mix of loam, compost, and organic matter to promote healthy growth. The ideal soil pH for Garden Phlox should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A balanced soil ensures proper nutrient absorption and supports a robust root system.
RepottingGarden Phlox, being a perennial, typically doesn't require frequent repotting and is best planted directly in the garden. However, division every 2-4 years in the spring can rejuvenate overcrowded clumps and maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingGarden Phlox thrives in average outdoor humidity levels. It does not have specific humidity requirements but benefits from good air circulation to prevent issues like powdery mildew, especially in humid climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright light, well-drained soil, and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in sun-partial shade, keep soil moist but well-drained.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cyclePhlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange', commonly known as Garden Phlox, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in late winter to early spring, provided it's exposed to the proper chilling period required to break dormancy. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with a small rosette of leaves close to the ground. As spring progresses, the plant forms a sturdy stem and a larger clump of foliage, preparing for the summer bloom. During summer, Garden Phlox enters its flowering stage, producing vibrant orange blooms that attract pollinators and can last for several weeks. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules, which ripen and eventually release seeds in late summer to early autumn, completing the reproductive cycle. Throughout the autumn, the plant's above-ground foliage dies back, and it enters a period of dormancy, with the roots surviving through the winter to begin the cycle anew the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the garden phlox, Phlox paniculata 'Prince of Orange', is through stem cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. A gardener would select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) section just below a node, where leaves emerge. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone before being placed in a soilless potting mix. The cutting is then kept moist but not overly wet, and in a warm place with indirect light until roots have developed, generally within a few weeks. After rooting, the new plant can be transplanted to a more permanent location in the garden.
