Phlox 'Phlox of Sheep'
Phlox drummondii
Phlox is an absolute must-have for garden-style designs. Its tiny clusters of antique-colored blooms bring delicate dimension and texture to heavier floral arrangements.
If you’ve ever struggled with stem length, here’s the key: cut regularly! While the first flowers may appear on short stems, consistent cutting encourages branching, resulting in longer, more usable stems perfect for design work.
The three varieties I included in our collection are my absolute favorites: 'Cherry Caramel' is perhaps the most famous phlox for design. 'Crème Brûlée' has a stunning antique appearance, and 'Phlox of Sheep' comes in a range of pastel shades, perfect for fairy bouquets (see 2nd photo for all the shades in this mix). Phlox is easy to grow, abundant, pest and disease resistant, and extremely quick to flower!
I took a floral design course with Gabriella Salazar where she created this bouquet, and I've been obsessed with phlox ever since. Every year, I ask my florists what they are looking for or have a hard time sourcing, and phlox is always at the top of the list.
Packet contains approximately 75 seeds.
DETAILS
Plant type: Annual
Days to maturity: 50–65 days
Light preference: Full sun
Plant spacing: 9 inches
Plant height: 20–30 inches
Hybrid status: Open pollinated
SOWING
Depth: 1/8 inch (darkness is required for germination)
Days to germination: 5–10 days at 60–65°F
How to Grow
Sow indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting out after all danger of frost. Cover seed as darkness is required for germination. Dislikes root disturbance, so use extra care when transplanting. May also be direct sown.
Harvest & Vase Life
Harvest as early as when buds start to swell, but no more than 1/2 of flowers are open.
Expected vase life: 5–7 days.
Photo Credit: Petal Back Farm & Ivy Garth
