TIMBER PHLOX

TIMBER PHLOX

Phlox divaricata
POLEMONIUM FAMILY (Polemoniaceae)

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This native perennial grows in colonies up to 16 inches tall. The lance-shaped leaves are opposite and clasp an erect stem (C). The blue to blue-violet tube flowers are in a cluster at the end of each stem (A,B); they each have 5 petal-like lobes. Identified by the flower color and shape and flowering period. A few white flowered timber phlox have been found also(E).The related Fall Phlox (Phlox paniculata) blooms much later and has pink flowers. Compare also with Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa), which has a pink flower as well. The flower of dame’s rocket (Hesperis matronalis) looks similar in shape, but it has 4 petals.

Found widespread in moist woodlands, flowering from April through June. In Fontenelle Forest, common, for instance along Missouri Trail. At Neale Woods, common along Columbine Trail.

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.

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