// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Cleft phlox

Phlox bifida ssp. bifida

Cleft phlox (Phlox bifida ssp. bifida) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO. Hardy in zones 3a–8a. Mature size 6"–1'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 9 U.S. states, including AR, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY…
USDA hardiness: Zones 3a–8a
Mature size: 6"–1'
Sun: —
Water: —
Bloom: Apr–Jun
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Cleft phlox (Phlox bifida ssp. bifida) — *Phlox bifida ssp. bifida* — Cleft phlox. Photo via iNaturalist — (c) Ryan Sorrells, some rights reserved (CC BY).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Cleft phlox (Phlox bifida ssp. bifida) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO. Hardy in zones 3a–8a. Mature size 6"–1'. Blooms Apr–Jun.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. 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, cleft phlox pairs naturally with: American Lotus (Nelumbo lutea), Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).