Moss Phlox 'McDaniels Cushion'

Phlox subulata 'McDaniel's Cushion' is one of the most vibrant and high-impact ground covers available for sunny UK gardens. This evergreen perennial forms a low, creeping cushion of needle-like, bright green foliage. In late spring, the plant is almost entirely obscured by a carpet of exceptionally large, starry, deep pink flowers with darker centres. The display is incredibly dense and long-lasting, making it a favourite for rockeries, banks, or trailing over the edges of containers and walls. It is a tough, drought-tolerant plant once established, preferring well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Rated H6 for hardiness, it can withstand harsh British winters without issue. It is important to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to rot. To maintain a neat, cushion-like shape and encourage fresh growth for the following year, it can be lightly trimmed back immediately after the flowers have faded. Its nectar-rich blooms are also a magnet for early butterflies.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, neutral to alkaline.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.