Phlox paniculata 'Backlight'
Phlox paniculata 'Backlight' is a luminous tall garden phlox that produces large clusters of soft glowing lavender pink flowers through midsummer into early fall. Its strong upright habit and extended bloom period make it a standout in sunny borders while providing consistent seasonal color and fragrance.
Height & Spread: 24 - 30 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Rich well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant
Native Status
This is a cultivated garden selection derived from North American native Phlox paniculata. While the species is native, this named cultivar is selected for improved flower color, mildew resistance, and extended bloom performance.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Highly attractive to butterflies including Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, and skippers which are drawn to its dense nectar rich flower clusters.
Bees
- Strong nectar source for native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which actively forage throughout its long bloom period.
Hummingbirds
- Frequently visited by hummingbirds which feed on the tubular flowers especially during peak midsummer bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for good air circulation and full clump development.
Landscape Placement
- Best used in sunny perennial borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator plantings where its tall flowering spikes provide vertical structure and long lasting color.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Coneflower) - Extends summer color and enhances pollinator activity alongside phlox.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Adds strong golden contrast and overlapping bloom timing.
- Calamagrostis acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' (Feather Reed Grass) - Provides vertical structure and movement behind flowering perennials.
- Monarda didyma 'Jacob Cline' (Bee Balm) - Intensifies pollinator value with bold red summer blooms.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Contributes upright purple spikes that complement phlox flower clusters.