Phlox maculata

Phlox maculata
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Asterids
Order: Ericales
Family: Polemoniaceae
Genus: Phlox
Species:
P. maculata
Binomial name
Phlox maculata
L.

Phlox maculata, commonly called meadow phlox, as well as wild sweet William and marsh phlox, is a species of flowering plant in the family Polemoniaceae, native the eastern United States and introduced to eastern Canada. It is a perennial.

Growing to 2–3 ft (61–91 cm), this erect, clump-forming herbaceous perennial produces clusters of fragrant, deep pink flowers in summer. The stiff stems are spotted red, hence the Latin specific epithet maculata. It prefers damp, well-drained soil in full sun. It is less prone to powdery mildew than the related Phlox paniculata.

The following cultivars have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit:

  • 'Alpha' (lilac)
  • 'Natascha' (pink and white)
  • 'Omega' (white with a red eye)