Annual Phlox
Cherry Caramel Phlox is an annual flower that brings sophisticated cottage garden charm to borders and cutting gardens alike. Its five-petaled blooms arrive in 60 to 65 days, displaying a captivating blend of vanilla white, cherry red, and rich caramel tones that look like they belong in an antique painting. Growing 15 to 25 inches tall in a compact form, this Phlox drummondii heirloom thrives in full sun across zones 6 to 11 and tolerates drought once established, making it both beautiful and forgiving for gardeners who want color without fuss.
Full Sun
Moderate
6-11
25in H x 10in W
Annual
High
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The color palette alone sets Cherry Caramel Phlox apart: those delicate five-petaled flowers mix cream, cherry, and caramel in ways that suggest a painter's hand rather than nature's randomness. Long stems make these flowers exceptional for cutting, while the plants' compact growth and drought tolerance mean they'll fill beds and borders without demanding constant attention. Summer into fall blooms and reliable germination make this an easy win for gardeners at any skill level.
The long stems of Cherry Caramel Phlox make it particularly suited to cutting for arrangements, where its antique color palette brings sophistication to summer bouquets. In the garden, it works equally well as a border plant that flowers reliably from summer through fall, drawing pollinators while requiring minimal maintenance.
Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your average last frost date in biodegradable pots, since roots are sensitive to disturbance. Sow at 1/8 inch depth and cover with vermiculite to maintain humidity; darkness is required for germination. Keep soil temperature between 55 and 65°F. Transplant carefully outdoors once first true leaves appear.
Transplant outdoors after hardening off, once soil can be worked in spring and frost danger has passed. Plant 8 inches apart, handling seedlings carefully to avoid damaging the sensitive roots.
Direct sow as soon as soil can be worked in early spring, pressing seed into the soil at 1/8 inch depth. Cover seed lightly, as darkness is required for germination. Thin seedlings when first true leaves appear to 8 inches apart. In mild winter areas (zones 8 to 10), fall sowing is an option; sow about 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date.
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