Phlox subulata 'Snowflake'
Phlox subulata 'Snowflake' is a standout white flowering ground cover phlox that delivers a dazzling spring display against dense dark green foliage. Its crisp blooms appear in profusion - often blanketing entire patches. The brightness of 'Snowflake' makes it especially effective at illuminating slopes and stonework.
Height & Spread: 4 - 6 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Sharp drained sandy or rocky soil
Watering Needs: Low; prefers drier soils once established
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This cultivar originates from Phlox subulata whose native to the eastern and central United States and is commonly found in open, rocky, or sandy habitats.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Draws early season butterflies such as Spring Azures and Eastern Tailed Blues, which rely on spring nectar sources.
Bees
- Frequently visited by mining bees, sweat bees, and early emerging honeybees looking for nectar during cool weather.
Moths
- Day active moths like Chickweed Geometer and other spring Geometrids are common visitors.
Birds
- The dense growth form offers shelter for ground nesting birds and protection for small fledglings from predators.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to create a luminous floral mat effect across rock beds or open slopes.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for retaining wall ledges, garden edges, stone stairways, and rock outcroppings where cascading bloom is desired.
Companion Plants
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives) - Adds height and purple contrast in tight sunny spaces.
- Iberis sempervirens (Candytuft) - Extends white bloom time with overlapping flowering period and complementary texture.
- Armeria maritima (Sea Thrift) - Forms low green tufts topped with pink button blooms, complementing the Phlox mat.
- Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar Pinks) - Adds bright pink flowers and spicy fragrance for extra spring interest.
- Coreopsis auriculata 'Nana' (Dwarf Tickseed) - Offers vibrant yellow contrast and compact growth habit following Phlox bloom.