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Phlox divaricata 'Clouds of Perfume' (Blue phlox, Wild sweet William, Woodland phlox)

Phlox divaricata 'Clouds of Perfume' Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken


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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Phlox divaricata 'Clouds of Perfume' floks div-air-ih-KAY-tah Common Name: Blue phlox, Wild sweet William, Woodland phlox Genus: Phlox
This is a very fragrant native woodland phlox with powder-blue flowers in spring. Reaching only 1 foot tall, it can spread to almost 2 feet and makes an attractive groundcover under shrubs or planted with other spring-blooming wildflowers. Leaves are semi-evergreen and hairy; stems root along their length. The blue flowers are salverform with petal lobes. This plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Very fragrant. Spreads by stem roots.
 Care: Grow in humus-rich, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade.
 Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame when ripe or in spring. Take basal cuttings in spring or root cuttings in early fall or winter. Detach rooted stem pieces in spring or early autumn.
 Problems: Powdery mildew, stem canker, rust, Southern blight, stem nematodes, leaf spots, leaf miners, and caterpillars. Rabbits can also cause damage.
Height 6 in. to 12 in.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Part Shade Only
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Attracts Hummingbirds; Fragrant Flowers; Native; Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Spring; Late Spring; Spring
Foliage Color Evergreen
Flower Color Blue Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers
Style Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest
Type Perennials

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