Wild Sweet William (Phlox Divaricata)

Wild Sweet William

Features and Characteristics

Phlox divaricata, commonly called woodland phlox, is a spreading, native wildflower which forms mats of foliage with stems typically reaching 12-15″ tall. As the common name suggests, this is a woodland species which occurs in rich woods, fields and along streams. Loose clusters of slightly fragrant, tubular, lilac to rose to blue flowers (to 5″ wide) with five, flat, notched, petal-like lobes that appear at the stem tips in spring. Stems are both hairy and sticky. Lance-shaped to elliptic leaves (to 2″ long). Can form large colonies over time as leafy shoots spread along the ground rooting at the nodes.

The genus name is derived from the Greek word phlox meaning flame in reference to the intense flower colors of some varieties.

Specific epithet means spreading.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Prefers rich, moist, organic soils. Appreciates a light summer mulch which helps retain moisture and keep roots cool.

Wild Sweet William (Phlox Divaricata) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Sun light	Part Shade To Full Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

Powdery mildew can be a serious problem. Cutting back stems after flowering helps combat mildew. Spider mites can also be a problem, particularly in hot, dry conditions. Watch out for rabbits.

Uses

Rock gardens, border fronts, wild gardens, native plant gardens or naturalized areas. Also an effective, shallow-rooted cover for early spring bulbs.

Wild Sweet William (Phlox Divaricata) Details

Common name	Wild Sweet William
Botanical name	Phlox Divaricata
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Polemoniaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Rose/Lavender Or Violet/Blue
Flowering period	April - May
Height	0.75 To 1 Ft.
Width	0.75 To 1 Ft.