Wild Sweetwilliam
(Phlox maculata)
Wild Sweetwilliam (Phlox maculata)
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Cephas
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Cephas
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Cephas | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Cephas | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Phlox_maculata_JRVdH_01.jpg | Notes: [[Commons:Batch_uploading/AucklandMuseumCCBY|Auckland Museum]] Page 181.46 Object #18145 AK295139 http://api.aucklandmuseum.com/id/media/v/63749 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Phlox maculata, commonly known as Wild Sweetwilliam, is a herbaceous perennial native to moist meadows, riverbanks, and open woodlands in the Central and Eastern USA, particularly the Appalachian region. It typically grows to a height of 2–3 feet (61–91 cm) and features erect, clump-forming stems that are notably spotted with red, which is reflected in the species’ Latin name ’maculata’. From mid to late summer, it produces clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers that are deep pink to purple in color, attracting various pollinators.
Wild Sweetwilliam is appreciated for its showy, fragrant blooms and its resistance to powdery mildew, which is a common issue in Phlox species. It is often used in perennial borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas. While it can tolerate part shade, it flourishes in full sun with medium water requirements and well-drained soil. It is less demanding than some of its relatives, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking a lower-maintenance option.CC BY-SA 4.0
Wild Sweetwilliam is appreciated for its showy, fragrant blooms and its resistance to powdery mildew, which is a common issue in Phlox species. It is often used in perennial borders, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas. While it can tolerate part shade, it flourishes in full sun with medium water requirements and well-drained soil. It is less demanding than some of its relatives, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking a lower-maintenance option.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Moist meadows, riverbanks, and open woodlands in the Central and Northeastern USA
Other Names
Common Names: Meadow Phlox, Northern Meadow Phlox, Spotted Phlox, Wild Sweet William, Wild Sweet-William, Phlox Maculé, Prickflox
Scientific Names: , Phlox maculata, Phlox maculata var. maculata, Phlox maculata var. candida, Phlox excelsa, Phlox maculata f. maculata, Phlox maculata var. gracilior, Phlox maculata var. nitida, Phlox nitida, Phlox pyramidata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Phlox maculata L.