Louisiana Phlox

Plant name: Louisiana Phlox

Scientific name: Phlox divaricata var. laphamii

Plant description:
Louisiana Phlox is a native woodland perennial valued for its soft blue spring flowers and natural spreading habit. This low-growing plant forms loose colonies over time, creating a carpet of foliage that brightens shaded landscapes. It is well suited for naturalistic plantings and understory gardens where filtered light and organic soil are present.

Flower description:
Clusters of fragrant, five-petaled flowers appear in spring, typically in shades of pale blue to lavender. Each bloom measures about 1 inch across and is held above the foliage on slender stems. Flowers attract butterflies and early-season pollinators.

Leaf description:
Leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and medium green with a smooth texture. Foliage forms a soft groundcover that remains attractive after flowering and provides a natural woodland look.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Herbaceous perennial; deciduous in winter.

USDA grow zones:
Zones 4–8.

Mature height and width:
10–18 inches tall in bloom and 12–24 inches wide, spreading gradually through short rhizomes.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, native plantings, and naturalized areas. Works well beneath trees and shrubs, along shaded paths, and in pollinator gardens. Effective as a spring groundcover that blends with other shade perennials.

Native range:
Native to the southeastern United States.

Sun exposure:
Partial shade to full shade is preferred. Morning sun is tolerated, especially in cooler climates. Protection from harsh afternoon sun supports best growth.

Water requirements:
Prefers evenly moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Water during extended dry periods to maintain healthy foliage and flowering. Avoid poorly drained sites.

Pests and problems:
Generally low maintenance. Powdery mildew may develop in humid conditions with limited airflow. Proper spacing and adequate air circulation reduce disease risk. Occasional foliar spotting may occur under stress.

Heat and sun tolerance:
Performs best in moderate temperatures with filtered light. Extended exposure to high heat and strong direct sun may reduce vigor. Consistent soil moisture helps support healthy growth during warm periods.

Cold tolerance:
Hardy within its recommended zones. Top growth dies back in winter, and roots tolerate seasonal freezing.

Growing tips:
Incorporate compost into planting areas to improve soil structure and moisture retention. Space plants to allow airflow and natural spread. After flowering, trim lightly to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage denser growth. Divide established clumps every few years to maintain vigor and expand plantings. Provide steady moisture during active growth for reliable spring blooms.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

, Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.