Garden Phlox

Phlox paniculata -- called garden, tall, or border phlox--grows 3 to 4 feet tall and bears large trusses of fragrant flowers from summer to early fall. It's an old-fashioned favorite that has few rivals for its color display and light, sweet fragrance. It's well suited to the back of the garden and cottage gardens.

4 to 7

Full sun or partial shade in evenly moist, rich, well-drained soil.

Plant 24 inches apart in spring or also in fall in Zones 7.

Water abundantly in dry weather. Thin clumps to three to five shoots per plant to provide good air circulation. Cut spent blooms for best rebloom. Add a thick mulch during summer to keep roots cool and during winter in cooler climates.