Identification
This native perennial grows in colonies. The lance-shaped leaves are opposite and clasp an erect, unbranched stem up to 16 inches tall (C). The blue to blue-violet flowers occur in a cluster at the end of each stem (A); its 5 petals are fused at the base forming a long tube below (B). A few white flowered timber phlox have been found also (E).
Found widespread in moist woodlands, flowering from April through May. Common in upland and lowland woodlands at both Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods.
The related Fall Phlox (Phlox paniculata) is a taller plant which blooms much later and has pink flowers. Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa) also has pink flowers and occupies much different prairie sites. The flower of dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is very similar in shape, but it has 4 petals.
Prince Maximilian, the German explorer, noted in his journal that this flower was abundant when he visited the settlement called Bellevue on the 3rd of May 1833.
Other common names include Blue Phlox and Wood Phlox.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.