How to Grow Cushion Phlox Red Wings
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Cushion Phlox Red Wings
Phlox subulata 'Red Wings'
flowerCushion Phlox 'Red Wings' is a compact, low-growing perennial groundcover that forms dense mats of needle-like foliage topped with vibrant red flowers in spring. This cultivar is prized for its brilliant red blooms and ability to cascade over edges or fill rock gardens. It's an easy-to-grow alpine plant that attracts pollinators and provides early season color.
When should you plant Cushion Phlox Red Wings in your zone?
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Example Cushion Phlox Red Wings timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Cushion Phlox Red Wings
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Cushion Phlox Red Wings blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-8, with best performance in cooler climates
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Get my Cushion Phlox Red Wings timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung transplants developing fine, needle-like foliage in tight rosettes
Keep soil evenly moist until roots establish (2-3 weeks). Mulch lightly with grit rather than organic material to prevent stem rot.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 months (fall/winter/early spring)Plants spreading horizontally, forming dense mats of fine green foliage reaching 4-6 inches tall
Reduce watering as plant establishes. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage bushier growth. Light fertilization in early spring is optional.
Flowering
4-6 weeks (typically April-May)Dense clusters of five-petaled red flowers blooming above the foliage mat, creating a striking red blanket
Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom and prevent self-seeding if undesired. Water during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Post-Bloom
6+ monthsFoliage remains ornamental through summer and fall; flowers fade and seeds set if not deadheaded
Cut back lightly if foliage becomes leggy or untidy. Reduce supplemental watering significantly. Improve drainage if plants look stressed in hot, humid weather.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase air circulation; spray with water or insecticidal soap if severe. Mites favor hot, dry conditions.
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicide if widespread; remove affected foliage.
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Prevent through excellent drainage and reduced watering. Improve soil drainage with sand/grit. Remove infected plants.
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and
Hand-pick or use slug baits around plants; copper barriers are also effective.
Uses
Rock Gardens and Alpine Troughs
OrnamentalCushion Phlox is a classic alpine plant perfect for rock gardens, raised beds, and alpine troughs where its cascading habit and vibrant red flowers create striking focal points. Its compact size and low-growing habit make it ideal for rocky, well-draining environments. [source]
Groundcover and Edging
OrnamentalUse 'Red Wings' as a low groundcover along borders, pathways, and sunny slopes. Its dense mat-forming growth smothers weeds and provides a uniform carpet of red spring blooms. [source]
Cascading Over Walls and Containers
OrnamentalThe prostrate growth habit makes this cultivar excellent for tumbling over dry stone walls, retaining walls, and container edges. It softens hardscape features while providing early seasonal color. [source]
Pollinator Garden
WildlifeRed Wings attracts bees, butterflies, and other early-season pollinators when few other plants are blooming, making it valuable for spring pollinator support and wildlife gardens. [source]
Low-Maintenance Xeriscape
HouseholdOnce established, Cushion Phlox requires minimal watering and maintenance, making it ideal for drought-tolerant landscapes, xeriscaping, and water-wise gardens in dry regions. [source]
Harvest Tips
Deadhead spent flowers throughout bloom season by pinching off faded flower clusters. This encourages longer blooming and prevents self-seeding. Flowers are not typically harvested for cutting; the plant is ornamental foliage and bloom display.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The genus name Phlox comes from the Greek word for 'flame,' referring to the vibrant flower colors that seem to glow in spring gardens.
- 🌱 Cushion Phlox is native to the rocky slopes and mountainous regions of eastern North America, where it thrives in thin, well-draining soils that would stress most garden plants.
- 🌱 'Red Wings' produces its most vibrant red color in cooler spring temperatures and may fade in intense summer heat, though the plant remains evergreen and ornamental year-round.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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