Phlox paniculata 'Bright Eyes' is a standout garden phlox cultivar known for large fragrant pink blooms with distinct darker pink eyes. Highly effective in mixed borders and native gardens.
Height & Spread: 30 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, enriched garden soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew
Deer Resistance: Low
Native Status
Derived from Phlox paniculata, which is native to the eastern United States. 'Bright Eyes' is a cultivated variety selected for ornamental use.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Attracts a wide range of butterflies including Monarchs, Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, and Great Spangled Fritillaries with its fragrant nectar rich blooms.
Bees
- Visited by honeybees, bumblebees, and long tongued native bees seeking summer nectar sources.
Hummingbirds
- Occasionally visited by Ruby Throated Hummingbirds attracted to the bright open flower clusters.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for air circulation and reduce mildew risk.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, cottage garden settings, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Bold daisy like blooms echo summer color and provide structure alongside tall phlox.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black Eyed Susan) - Offers contrasting golden tones and blooms in sync for late season color masses.
- Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) - Adds cool silver foliage and lavender blue flowers that balance the warm tones of 'Bright Eyes'.
- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage) - Complements with upright flower spikes and helps attract pollinators throughout the season.
- Veronica spicata (Speedwell) - Pairs well in both height and bloom time, adding spires of blue or purple to the mix.