Moss Phlox
Phlox hoodii
Last reviewed: August 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–6" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 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 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Moss phlox forms dense, low-growing mats of needle-like evergreen foliage that hug the ground. In May and June, the plants are covered with small, fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple, creating colorful carpets.
In an HOA neighborhood
Moss 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 flowers attract bees and butterflies during peak blooming season. The dense mat structure can provide shelter for small beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Moss Phlox need?
- Moss Phlox grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Moss Phlox bloom?
- Moss Phlox blooms in May and June.
- Where is Moss Phlox native?
- Moss Phlox (Phlox hoodii) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Moss Phlox attract?
- Moss Phlox draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Moss Phlox HOA-friendly?
- Moss Phlox is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Moss Phlox? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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