Creeping Phlox
Phlox stolonifera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Phlox stolonifera is a low-growing native groundcover that blooms with fragrant purple flowers from April through June. This creeping phlox thrives in eastern woodlands from Maine to Georgia.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
GA, KY, MD, ME and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, moths
Creeping phlox forms a low, spreading carpet of evergreen foliage topped with clusters of fragrant spring flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. This native groundcover thrives in partial shade and provides excellent coverage for slopes or woodland garden areas.
Growing Creeping Phlox
Grow Creeping Phlox in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping 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 bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, providing crucial early-season nectar. Night-flying moths also visit the fragrant flowers for nighttime pollination services.
Common questions
- When does Phlox stolonifera bloom?
- Creeping phlox blooms from April through June, producing clusters of fragrant five-petaled flowers.
- What pollinators visit Phlox stolonifera?
- Creeping phlox attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and moths with its nectar-rich flowers.
- Where is Phlox stolonifera native?
- This species is native to eastern North America, naturally occurring from Maine south to Georgia and west to Kentucky and Tennessee.
- How does Phlox stolonifera spread?
- As its name suggests, creeping phlox spreads by stolons (horizontal stems) to form dense mats, making it an excellent groundcover for woodland gardens.
- Is Creeping Phlox HOA-friendly?
- Creeping Phlox is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Creeping Phlox? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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