Santa Fe Phlox

Santa Fe Phlox (Phlox nana)

By Janet Hirons

May is a great month to sing the praises of Santa Fe phlox because it’s when we start to see this delightful early-season bloomer. This Western native wildflower varies in size, depending on weather conditions, but is never taller than 12 inches. The flower color ranges from purple to pink (rarely white or yellow), with small white eyes. Its botanical name is indicative of color and size: Phloxis Greek for flameor blaze, while nanameans it’s a dwarf. Chosen by Colorado State University as a 2013 Plant Select ® winner, Santa Fe phlox is hardy, easy to grow, and rabbit-resistant, with fragrant flowers that attract bees and butterflies.The plant’s native habitat is in canyons, on rocky slopes, and along roadsides. Natural propagation occurs when fertile, ripe seeds are released from seedpods via explosion. Nursery propagation of Phlox nanais difficult because explosive shatter of the seed pods happens extremely fast and the timing is hard to predict. Before David Salman, horticulturist and native plant expert, cracked the code on how to propagate Phlox nana, it was hard to find even at native plant nurseries. Fortunately Santa Fe phlox ‘Perfect Pink,’ a clone from a native plant selected for its large (1.5-inch) flower size and wide, deep pink petals, is now available for domestic gardens.Planting and care:Phlox nanalikes hot, dry areas. Combine it with plants that have similar needs, such as blackfoot daisy, agastache, and lavender. The bloom time for this herbaceous species may be extended by late summer rains or with irrigation.Landscape use:Effective as a groundcover in rock gardens and in borders, it’s also great for mass plantings.Propagation:Phlox nanais difficult to propagate; plants are available from limited nurseries.Plant type:herbaceous perennialBloom time:late spring to early summerHeight x width:5–8 inches tall x 12–15 inches wideSun:full sunSoil:not picky but avoid heavy, wet soilsWater: lowUSDA Zones:4–8References:Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Plant Database, Phlox nanaSanta Fe Botanical Garden, Propagating Santa Fe phloxSanta Fe Botanical Garden, Santa Fe phloxWildflowers of New Mexico, Santa Fe Phlox