Meadow Phlox 'Alpha'

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' is an elegant alternative to the more common border phlox. It is distinguished by its long, cylindrical, 'club-shaped' flower heads, rather than the rounded panicles of P. paniculata. The flowers are a vibrant, glowing pink with a darker eye and have a lovely sweet fragrance. The stems are particularly sturdy and are often marked with purple spots (maculata means 'spotted'). Growing to about 80-90cm, it has a more slender and refined habit than many of its relatives. One of its greatest strengths is its excellent resistance to powdery mildew, making it a reliable performer in the UK. It prefers a moist, fertile soil and will bloom best in full sun, though it can tolerate a little light shade. It is a wonderful plant for the middle of a border and makes an excellent cut flower. Fully hardy and long-lived, it adds a touch of sophistication to any mid-summer display.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.