Identification
This perennial has an erect, 2-5 foot tall stem. Opposite leaves are broadly lance shaped with smooth margins and conspicuous branching veins (A). Trumpet-shaped flowers have 5 petals which are fused into a long tube at the base (B,C). The fragrant flowers occur in showy pyramidal clusters (panicles). They are usually deep lavender, but may also be white to pink. Fruits are small 3-celled capsules.
Differentiated from other phlox species by its larger size and conspicuous branched leaf veins. It also blooms later than similar Timber Phlox (Phlox divaricata) and Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa).
Grows in woodlands, flowering from July through September. Fall Phlox is native to states south and east of Nebraska, but has been widely planted locally as it is a garden favorite. It has been seen on rare occasions at both Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods, likely ‘escapees’ from local gardens. A recent occurrence near the Neale Woods entrance, however, appears related to plants that have persisted at the site of an old garden.
Also known as Garden Phlox, a name reflecting its popularity as a garden planting.
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