Phlox drummondii

Annual Phlox
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Asterids
Order: Ericales
Family: Polemoniaceae
Genus: Phlox
Species: P. drummondii
Binomial name
Phlox drummondii
Hook.

Phlox drummondii (Annual Phlox) [1] is a flowering plant in the genus Phlox. This plant is native to Texas, but is widely distributed in the southeastern United States, especially along public highways. P. drummondii is often used as an ornamental plant. [2] According to J. P. Kelly "the colors have a wide range from white and cream through pinks, lilacs, roses, purples and reds, to almost black". [3]

The branches of the Phlox drummondii have sharp, pointed, lengthy, ciliated leaves with rounded flowers. The flowers are generally one-inch singles or double, with star shaped petals and a flatness. They have a light fragrance. The flowers mature to 8-10 inches x 8-10 inches. Due to the flower's experience with northern temperate zones, it tolerates cold weather well, but requires healthy watering and dislikes drought, wind and heat.[4]

References

  1. ^ P. drummondii at USDA Plants Profile
  2. ^ Phlox drummondii at Floridata
  3. ^ Kelly, James P. 1920. A genetical study of flower form and flower color in Phlox drummondii. Genetics 5(2): 189-248 and 5(3): 361.
  4. ^ Bruce Asakawa; Sharon Asakawa (3 September 2001). California Gardener's Guide. Cool Springs Press. p. 34-35. ISBN 978-1-930604-47-6. http://books.google.com/books?id=ow7NMmhz5wwC. Retrieved 25 November 2011.