// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Downy phlox

Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida

Downy phlox (Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–10a. Mature size 6"–2'. Blooms Mar–May.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 33 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 2b–10a
Mature size: 6"–2'
Sun: Part shade
Water: Low · xeric
Bloom: Mar–May
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Downy phlox (Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida) — *Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida* — Downy phlox. Photo via iNaturalist — (c) Samuel A Schmid, PhD, PWS, some rights reserved (CC BY).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Downy phlox (Phlox pilosa ssp. fulgida) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 2b–10a. Mature size 6"–2'. Blooms Mar–May. Low water use makes it a strong candidate for xeric and drought-conscious plantings.

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, downy phlox pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia), Common Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis).