The common name "garden phlox" is misleading, since this plant is a widespread
North American native plant—the name refers to its popularity among gardeners.
Numerous cultivars have been developed.
Identification: Plants are usually 2-3′ (60-91 cm) tall, sometimes
reaching 4′ (1.2 m). Leaves are oval-shaped, 4-7″ (10-17 cm) long, pointed at both ends, sometimes wider near the base,
otherwise widest in the middle. Branched flower clusters 3-8″ (8-20 cm) around are composed of
multiple salverform flowers about 1″ (2.5 cm) around, each with five petals. Flowers are
pink, sometimes white or lavender.
A visiting Great Spangled Fritillary butterfly. · 8/12/2011 · Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay, Maine · By Constance B. Kent ID is uncertain