Scarlet Flame Moss Phlox

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

6-11 Inches

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Scarlet Flame Moss Phlox is an easy evergreen perennial that adds a carpet of vibrant color to even the trickiest areas. In the spring, it is covered in stunning star-shaped, magenta blooms. The dark-green, needle-shaped foliage creates a moss-like carpet that looks attractive year-round. This plant is highly adaptable to many different sites and requires minimal maintenance.  

This phlox forms a low, dense mound, only 3 – 6 inches high. It spreads quickly to 2 – 3 feet wide, covering large areas of bare soil. It is exceptionally cold hardy and can be grown in zone 3. It is not appealing to deer or rabbits, while bees and butterflies adore the flowers. It tolerates heat and humidity, and poor, dry soils. Use it to spread over steep banks, cascade over rock walls, or enhance a rock garden. It also makes a lovely ‘spiller’ in outdoor container plantings.

Scarlet Flame Moss Phlox Care

Scarlet Flame performs best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, although it tolerates part shade. It prefers moist, well-drained soil, but also can be grown in dry, rocky and sandy soils. Water new plants regularly during the summer months to establish drought tolerance. Established plants will not need much supplemental water in the summer. Fertilizer is not needed; however, you can top-dress the roots with a high-quality compost.

After blooming, shear the foliage back by half to keep the plant tidy. Phlox can be divided every 3-5 years in spring or fall.

Scarlet Flame Moss Phlox Spacing

To create a dense groundcover of Scarlet Flame, space each plant approximately 24 inches apart on center in staggered rows. For container plantings, select a weather-resistant pot at least 18 inches in diameter with large drainage holes.