Phlox divaricata 'May Breeze' is a woodland phlox selection prized for its pale icy blue to near white flowers and early spring bloom. This native cultivar brings a soft, luminous quality to shaded gardens and naturalized settings.
Height & Spread: 12 - 15 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Early to mid spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Rich, moist, well drained woodland soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture in dry periods
Deer Resistance: Low to moderate
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from the species Phlox divaricata, which naturally occurs in woodlands and shaded areas of eastern and central U.S.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Highly attractive to early season butterflies such as Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Spring Azure, which rely on native nectar sources.
Bees
- Visited by native sweat bees and small bumblebees that can access its narrow flower tubes.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports syrphid flies and parasitic wasps that aid in early spring garden pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to create a spreading ground layer without excessive overlap.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for woodland edges, shaded borders, native plantings, and underplanting of deciduous trees and shrubs.
Companion Plants
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Shares a similar woodland niche and offers delicate spring blooms and attractive foliage.
- Polygonatum biflorum (Solomon's Seal) - Adds graceful arching form and thrives in similar moist, shaded conditions.
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Provides a dense foliage mat and earthy contrast beneath taller spring bloomers.
- Ferns (e.g., Athyrium or Dryopteris species) - Bring fine textured green backdrops that highlight the soft blooms of woodland phlox.
- Heuchera 'Palace Purple' (Coral Bells) - Offers rich, dark foliage and adds visual weight to spring shade combinations.