// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Moss Phlox

Phlox subulata

Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata) is a perennial in the Polemoniaceae family. Native range includes AR, MO. Hardy in zones 3a–9a. Mature size 1"–8". Blooms Mar–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: Polemoniaceae
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 30 U.S. states, including AR, CT, DE, GA, IA, IL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 3a–9a
Mature size: 1"–8"
Sun: Part shade
Water: High · moisture-loving
Bloom: Mar–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: sun groundcover · moss-like mat · spring color carpet

Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata) — *Phlox subulata* — Moss Phlox. Photo via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata) is a perennial in the Polemoniaceae family. Native range includes AR, MO. Hardy in zones 3a–9a. Mature size 1"–8". Blooms Mar–Jun.

Why it's on this list: sun groundcover · moss-like mat · spring color carpet. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, moss phlox pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia).