Phlox drummondii aka Drummond's Phlox

Taxonomy

Phlox drummondii, also known as annual phlox or Drummond's phlox, is a flowering plant native to Texas and widely distributed in the southeastern United States. It is often used as an ornamental plant, with flowers that come in a wide range of colors, from white and cream to pinks, lilacs, roses, purples, and reds. The plant has small lance-shaped dark-green leaves and long branching, wiry stems, making it well-suited as a cut flower. Named after Scottish botanist Thomas Drummond, who discovered it during his expedition to Texas, Drummond's phlox can be grown as an annual and easily propagated from its seed heads. With a germination period of just 10 to 30 days, it provides spring blooms that can last into early summer. While it may not thrive in regions with high rainfall and specific soil types, it remains popular in the southwestern United States.

Common names

Drummond's Phlox, Annual Phlox, Pride Of Texas

How to care for Drummond's Phlox

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Drummond's Phlox due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Drummond's Phlox should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Drummond's Phlox loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Drummond's Phlox thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Pride Of Texas.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Drummond's Phlox is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Growth-pattern

Drummond's Phlox grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.


More info:
Wikipedia