Phlox ×procumbens: A Lesser-Known Hybrid Worth Understanding
If you’ve stumbled across the name Phlox ×procumbens in your gardening research, you’ve discovered one of the more mysterious members of the phlox family. This hybrid phlox presents an interesting case study in plant identification and the importance of choosing well-documented species for your garden.
What Makes This Phlox Special (And Challenging)
Phlox ×procumbens is a perennial hybrid phlox, meaning it’s the result of cross-breeding between two different phlox species. The × symbol in its botanical name is your clue that this isn’t a naturally occurring species but rather a hybrid. As a forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant—it lacks the substantial woody tissue you’d find in shrubs or trees, with its growing points located at or below ground level.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
Currently, this hybrid phlox has been documented growing in Maine, where it’s established itself as a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild. While it’s not originally from North America, it has managed to naturalize in at least this one location.
The Challenge with Hybrid Information
Here’s where things get tricky for gardeners: there’s surprisingly little specific information available about Phlox ×procumbens. Unlike well-established species with decades of cultivation history, this hybrid hasn’t been extensively studied or widely grown, leaving gaps in our knowledge about:
- Specific growing requirements and preferred conditions
- Mature size and growth habits
- Hardiness zones and climate preferences
- Pollinator and wildlife benefits
- Potential invasive characteristics
Should You Plant It?
Given the limited information available about Phlox ×procumbens, most gardeners would be better served by choosing well-documented native phlox species instead. Without clear data on its growing requirements, potential invasiveness, or garden performance, this hybrid presents more questions than answers.
Better Native Alternatives to Consider
Instead of gambling on this mysterious hybrid, consider these fantastic native phlox options that offer proven garden performance:
- Wild Sweet William (Phlox divaricata) – Perfect for woodland gardens with lovely blue flowers
- Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) – Excellent ground cover with spring blooms
- Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) – Tall, showy perennial perfect for pollinator gardens
- Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa) – Great for naturalized areas and prairie-style plantings
The Bottom Line
While Phlox ×procumbens might sound intriguing, the lack of comprehensive growing information makes it a risky choice for most gardeners. Your garden—and local ecosystem—will likely benefit more from choosing well-studied native phlox species that offer predictable beauty, proven pollinator benefits, and established care guidelines. Sometimes the most interesting plant isn’t necessarily the best plant for your garden!
