How to Grow Drummond Phlox Petticoat
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Drummond Phlox Petticoat
Phlox drummondii 'Petticoat'
flowerDrummond Phlox Petticoat is a dwarf annual variety of Texas phlox, reaching only 6-8 inches tall with densely packed, double-petaled flowers in soft pastel shades of pink, white, and lavender. This compact cultivar produces abundant blooms from early summer through fall, making it ideal for borders, containers, and edging. It's a reliable, easy-to-grow annual that attracts pollinators and provides continuous color with minimal maintenance.
When should you plant Drummond Phlox Petticoat in your zone?
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Example Drummond Phlox Petticoat timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Drummond Phlox Petticoat
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 Drummond Phlox Petticoat blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Drummond Phlox Petticoat dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives as an annual in zones 2-11; prefers cooler temperatures in zones 8-11
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Get my Drummond Phlox Petticoat timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging; very delicate appearance
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth. Thin seedlings to proper spacing early.
Vegetative
20-30 daysPlant develops multiple stems and foliage; compact mounding form becoming apparent
Pinch back early shoots to encourage bushiness and more compact growth. Water regularly and fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
Flowering
60-90 daysDense clusters of double-petaled flowers appearing at branch tips; pastel colors prominent
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage at expense of flowers. Water at soil level.
Peak Bloom
30-45 daysPlant covered in abundant flower clusters; very full and floriferous appearance
Continue deadheading. Monitor for powdery mildew in humid conditions and improve air circulation. Provide afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Decline & End of Season
Until frost or extreme heatFlowers diminish as temperatures cool in fall or heat intensifies in summer; plant may decline
This is normal for annuals. Allow some flowers to remain for self-seeding if desired, or pull plants and replace with fall plantings.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, apply neem oil or sulfur spray if needed
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Spray with water to dislodge, increase humidity, use insecticidal soap if severe
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Spray with strong water stream, apply insecticidal soap, attract beneficial insects like ladybugs
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and
Remove debris, hand-pick at dusk, use copper tape barriers, beer traps
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryDrummond Phlox flowers are edible and can be used as delicate garnishes for salads, desserts, and beverages. The flowers have a mildly sweet flavor and add visual appeal to culinary presentations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe dense flower clusters make charming additions to small bouquets and floral arrangements. Their long blooming season provides consistent fresh-cut material throughout the growing season. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeDrummond Phlox attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. The abundant flowers provide nectar and pollen resources. [source]
Border & Container Gardening
HouseholdThe compact 6-8 inch height makes it ideal for garden borders, edging pathways, container gardens, and window boxes. It provides colorful mounding foliage and flowers with minimal space. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalPhlox species have been used in traditional Native American medicine for various purposes. While not common in modern herbal practice, the plant has historical ethnobotanical significance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested; simply deadhead spent flower clusters by pinching them off at the base just below the flower head. This encourages more blooms. Cut back severely if plant becomes leggy mid-season to rejuvenate.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Drummond Phlox is native to Texas and was named after Thomas Drummond, a 19th-century Scottish botanist and plant collector who explored North America.
- 🌱 The 'Petticoat' variety's double-petaled flowers are a cultivated variation; wild Phlox drummondii has single flowers, and the doubling creates a ruffled, frilly appearance resembling layers of a petticoat.
- 🌱 These phlox flowers are one of the few annuals that produce fragrance at dusk and in overcast conditions, releasing a sweet, delicate scent that attracts nighttime pollinators.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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