Phlox stolonifera ‘Pink Ridge’ is a mat forming woodland phlox cultivar known for its lush carpets of rich pink flowers in early spring. Unlike taller Phlox species, it stays low and spreads by stolons, making it ideal for blanketing shaded slopes and forest floors. Its broad overlapping petals and dense habit create a vibrant display that pairs aesthetic appeal with early season habitat value.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, humus based soil with good drainage
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers even moisture during the growing season
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar derives from Phlox stolonifera, a species native to the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States, where it naturally occurs in shaded forests and along streambanks.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Spring Azures, and Pearl Crescents during its bloom period with accessible nectar rich flowers.
Bees
- Supports a range of native bees including mining bees, sweat bees, and early emerging bumblebees seeking spring nectar.
Moths
- Visited by day flying moths such as the Chickweed Geometer and other woodland species that forage in spring understories.
Birds
- Provides insect foraging opportunities for warblers and other small songbirds during spring migration.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to create seamless coverage and prevent crowding in dense shade beds.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for woodland paths, native plant shade gardens, and between stepping stones. Can be used to naturalize under deciduous trees where seasonal light supports strong bloom.
Companion Plants
- Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - A fine textured low growing sedge that pairs well in shaded dry woodlands with a grass like look.
- Heuchera americana (Alumroot) - Provides foliage contrast with ruffled leaves and small spikes of late spring flowers.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Offers similar height and bloom time creating a soft floral tapestry in shade gardens.
- Polygonatum biflorum (Solomons Seal) - Arches above phlox mats with dangling white blooms and graceful foliage.
- Trillium grandiflorum (White Trillium) - A classic woodland wildflower that blooms alongside Phlox in rich deciduous forests.