Phlox may be an old-fashioned plant, but they just keep coming out with wonderful new varieties. Not that the older varieties aren't gorgeous. But Phlox has a tendency to develop powdery mildew in damp or humid areas. By mid-summer, the plants can get pretty ugly. Newer varieties are being bred for resistance to powdery mildew, so you can take advantage of Phlox's repeat blooming nature. You will need to deadhead the flowers, to keep more flowers coming. And you may also need to stake the plants, since the flowers make them top heavy.
Phlox paniculata 'The King' (USDA Zones 4 - 8, 26" x 24", Magenta Blooms: July - Sept.)
Alternatives
- Phlox x paniculata 'Red Feelings', (USDA Zones 4 - 8, 28" x 20", Reddish-Purple Blooms: July - Sept.)
- Centranthus ruber (Red Valerian ) (USDA Zones 5 - 8, 36" x18", Magenta Blooms: June - Aug.)