Emerald Pink Moss Phlox

Phlox subulata 'Emerald Pink'

Family: Phlox

Type: Perennial

Other Common Name: Creeping Phlox

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox, scientifically known as Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Pink’, is a vibrant ground-cover plant. It’s celebrated for its dense, needle-like foliage and profuse pink blooms. This perennial plant blooms in early spring, creating a carpet of bright pink flowers.

It’s a low-growing, spreading plant, reaching only about 4-6 inches in height. Emerald Pink is perfect for rock gardens, borders, and edging pathways. Its dense growth habit makes it effective at suppressing weeds and covering bare spots.

This variety of Moss Phlox is particularly known for its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a popular choice for sunny, dry areas.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 2a-3a

Deer Resistant: Yes

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Dry to average

Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade

Drought Tolerance (Xeriscape): Yes

Growth

Growth Rate: Medium

Average Height (feet): 0.5

Average Spread (feet): 1.5

Average Life Span (years): 10

Form: Spreading

Ornamental

Flower Color: Pink

Flower Shape: Star

Bloom Season: From early to late spring

Foliage Color: Green

Foliage Shape: Needle

Landscaping Your Yard With Emerald Pink Moss Phlox

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox is ideal for creating a colorful ground cover. It spreads out to fill spaces, adding a burst of color to the landscape. Plant it on slopes or banks for erosion control and visual interest.

Incorporating this plant into rock gardens or along stone pathways creates a natural, cascading effect. Its vibrant pink flowers contrast beautifully with the natural stone. Use it to edge flower beds or borders, where its low profile won’t overshadow other plants.

Plant Emerald Pink Moss Phlox in sunny areas where other plants struggle. Its ability to tolerate dry conditions makes it a practical and beautiful addition to challenging spots.

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Suitable Garden Styles

Alpine Rock Garden

Emerald Pink is a natural choice for alpine rock gardens. Its ability to spread among rocks and its preference for well-drained soil mimic its natural mountainous habitat.

Cottage Garden

In cottage gardens, Emerald Pink Moss Phlox adds a splash of color at ground level. It complements taller, more traditional cottage garden plants and adds interest to pathways and borders.

Formal Garden

For formal gardens, Emerald Pink offers a low-maintenance option for adding color. Its uniform growth and vibrant blooms create a neat, manicured look, perfect for formal settings.

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox Landscaping Ideas

Use Emerald Pink as a living mulch under taller plants. It covers the soil, helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds, all while adding color. In container gardens, let it spill over the edges for a soft, lush look.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Emerald Pink Moss Phlox is at its most spectacular. The plant is covered in vibrant pink flowers, creating a stunning display that heralds the start of the gardening season.

Summer

After blooming, Emerald Pink's flowers give way to its dense, green foliage. The plant remains an attractive, low-growing ground cover throughout the summer.

Fall

In fall, Emerald Pink Moss Phlox's foliage can turn to a rusty color, adding autumnal interest. The plant remains dense and compact, retaining its ground cover abilities.

Winter

During winter, Emerald Pink Moss Phlox becomes dormant. Its foliage may persist, providing some greenery in the otherwise barren winter landscape.

Companion Plants

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Chocolate Chip Ajuga

Ajuga 'Chocolate Chip'

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Stella D’oro Daylily

Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro'

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Cat’s Pajamas Catmint

Nepeta x faassenii 'Cat's Pajamas'

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Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox flourishes in areas with full sun to partial shade. It’s ideal for sunny slopes, rock gardens, and edges of pathways where its full beauty can be displayed.

Light

This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. However, too much shade can reduce flowering and affect the plant's vibrancy.

Soil

Well-drained soil is crucial for Emerald Pink Moss Phlox. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil but can adapt to various soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.

Spacing

When planting, space Emerald Pink Moss Phlox about 15-18 inches apart. This spacing allows the plants to spread and fill in the area, creating a dense ground cover.

When to Plant

The best time to plant Emerald Pink Moss Phlox is in the spring or early fall. Planting during these cooler temperatures helps the plant establish its root system.

How to Plant

Plant at the same depth as the nursery pot. Loosen the soil around the plant to encourage root growth. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Water regularly after planting until established. Once mature, Emerald Pink Moss Phlox is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.

Fertilizing

Apply a light layer of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning

After flowering, trim the plant to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. This also helps prevent center die-out in larger clumps.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In early spring, prune to remove any dead or damaged foliage. Apply fertilizer to support the upcoming bloom.

Summer Care

During summer, water the plant during extended dry periods. Otherwise, little care is needed as it is quite resilient.

Fall Care

In fall, no specific care is necessary. However, you can trim the plant to keep it neat, if desired.

Winter Care

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox requires minimal care in winter. It's hardy and can survive cold temperatures with its foliage providing some winter interest.

Plant Alternatives

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Snowflake Creeping Moss Phlox

Phlox subulata 'Snowflakes'

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Wood’s Pink Aster

Aster 'Wood's Pink'

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FAQ

How Fast Does Emerald Pink Moss Phlox Spread?

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox spreads moderately, creating a full ground cover in one to two seasons.

Can Emerald Pink Moss Phlox Be Used in Container Gardens?

Yes, it’s excellent for containers, especially as a spiller plant over the edges, adding vibrant color and texture.

Is Emerald Pink Moss Phlox Deer Resistant?

Emerald Pink Moss Phlox is generally deer resistant, making it a good choice in gardens prone to deer visits. Its dense growth and flowering habit are not particularly attractive to deer.

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