Douglas Phlox 'Red Admiral'

Phlox douglasii 'Red Admiral' is a superb evergreen alpine that provides a high-impact burst of colour. It forms a very dense, low-growing cushion of tiny, needle-like dark green leaves. In late spring and early summer, the foliage is almost completely hidden by a carpet of small, crimson-red flowers with a darker eye. This cultivar is slightly more compact and slower-growing than many Phlox subulata varieties, making it better suited for smaller troughs or choice spots in a rock garden. It is a very hardy plant that performs best in a sunny position with gritty, well-drained soil. In the UK, it is highly valued for its ability to provide vibrant colour just as the early spring bulbs are fading. Like all mat-forming phlox, it appreciates a light trim after flowering to prevent the centre from becoming thin and to maintain its cushion-like habit.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.