Cleft Phlox
Phlox bifida
Last reviewed: August 2026
Phlox bifida (Cleft Phlox) is a native wildflower blooming pink to lavender in May and June across the Midwest and South. This low-growing perennial thrives in well-drained soils and attracts bees and butterflies.
Toxicity unknown
Cleft Phlox (Phlox bifida) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AR, IA, IL, IN and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Sand phlox is a low-growing native perennial that forms neat mounds of small, narrow leaves. In late spring, it produces clusters of delicate five-petaled flowers in shades of white, pink, or lavender that create a colorful carpet effect.
Growing Cleft Phlox
Grow Cleft Phlox in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 4 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cleft Phlox is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The abundant spring blooms attract native bees and butterflies during a critical early season period when few other flowers are available.
Common questions
- When does Cleft Phlox bloom?
- Phlox bifida typically blooms during May and June, producing clusters of fragrant pink to lavender flowers.
- What pollinators visit Cleft Phlox?
- Cleft Phlox attracts various bees and butterflies, making it valuable for pollinator gardens in native plant landscapes.
- Where is Phlox bifida native?
- Cleft Phlox is native to the central United States, including Arkansas, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
- What growing conditions does Cleft Phlox prefer?
- This species thrives in partial sun to full sun locations with well-drained, medium moisture soils. It tolerates drought once established.
- Is Cleft Phlox HOA-friendly?
- Cleft Phlox is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Cleft Phlox? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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