Phlox × arendsii 'Utopia'
phlox
Phlox have always been country garden favourites - loved for their delicious scent and attraction to butterflies and bees. Phlox × arendsii 'Utopia' is no exception, having particularly large flowers in a delightful shade of pale lilac-rose with a good scent.
Flowering from mid to late summer on tall stems this vigorous perennial will tolerate full sun or partial shade, but like all phlox, it does not like soil that dries out in summer. Try it in the middle of a border where it will liven up a deep blue and purple colour scheme.
Flowering from mid to late summer on tall stems this vigorous perennial will tolerate full sun or partial shade, but like all phlox, it does not like soil that dries out in summer. Try it in the middle of a border where it will liven up a deep blue and purple colour scheme.
How to care for Phlox × arendsii Utopia:
Thrives in any fertile, humus rich, moist soil in full sun or part shade. Plants will benefit from good air circulation and from watering in extended dry spells. Water at the base if necessary, rather than over the leaves to avoid issues with mildew.
Support with bamboo canes, brushwood or ring stakes in exposed areas before the flowers appear. Phlox are greedy plants, so apply a mulch 5-7cm (2-3in) deep of well-rotted garden compost or manure in early spring. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent reseeding.
If the leaves show signs of powdery mildew, cut down to the ground and dispose of the affected foliage, but do not compost it. Clear away the debris around the plant to reduce the chances of reinfection. Cut down to the ground in autumn, and lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.
Support with bamboo canes, brushwood or ring stakes in exposed areas before the flowers appear. Phlox are greedy plants, so apply a mulch 5-7cm (2-3in) deep of well-rotted garden compost or manure in early spring. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent reseeding.
If the leaves show signs of powdery mildew, cut down to the ground and dispose of the affected foliage, but do not compost it. Clear away the debris around the plant to reduce the chances of reinfection. Cut down to the ground in autumn, and lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1.5m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
