Plox Flower

This article is a stub. Please help Symbolism Wiki by expanding it. The name “phlox” comes from the Ancient Greek word phlox, for “blaze.” I’ve seen two reasons given for this etymology: One is that the intensely colored flowers are as bright as little flames. The other is the flame-shaped flower clusters of upright varieties of phlox.

It’s said that phlox flowers were created by the torches of Odysseus’ men when they descended to Hades. When they returned, they threw their torches to the ground, where they became phlox flowers. This tale most likely refers to Polemonium caeruleum, a member of the phlox family known as Jacob’s ladder or Greek valerian.

Also called Texas pride, Drummond’s or annual phlox, blossoms appear in March, April and May on plants that are about a foot tall, sometimes up to 20 inches. This Southern belle of roadsides and fields escaped from cultivation and now thrives in the wild in Texas. The species is named for Thomas Drummond of Scotland, who collected Texas seeds in an area where there were red and pink phlox and sent them to England in 1835. It has been prized in Europe as an “exotic” cultivated garden flower ever since. About 200 true breeding strains were developed from this single collection of seeds: red, pink, white, lavender, maroon, coral, pale pink and mixtures of these colors.

The leaves are soft, hairy and sticky. Fist-sized, terminal clusters of dozens of 1-inch-wide flowers make a perfect landing place for nectar-seeking insects. A deep, narrow throat leads to the nectar disk, well-suited to the long, curled proboscis of the butterfly. Phlox nectar attracts a variety of butterflies, bees and moths and is a food source for rabbits and deer. In Victorian times, people liked to ascribe meaning to flowers, and they considered phlox to mean “our souls are united” or “we think alike,” so it was used at weddings and family gatherings. According to folklore, planting it in the garden encourages family unity and harmony.

Phlox symbolism and meaning[]

There are a number of meanings associated with phlox flowers, most of which are related to the way the clusters of flowers grow at the top of the stems. There is an enduring belief that the fact they grow this way means phlox symbolize togetherness with other related meanings including:

Harmony
Friendship
Unity
Partnership
United hearts
Agreement
Eternal love

For these reasons, phlox are often associated with romantic relationships, but there are some variations depending on the specific colour of the flowers. Their colours range from pale whites and ivories to deeper pinks and purples in various combinations with meanings associated with each shade.

Red phlox is one of the rarest colours of phlox, signifying the unique nature of an instant and enduring connection.

Pink phlox is a symbol of affection, either romantic or between friends, while white phlox is associated with innocence, grace, faithfulness and honesty. Purple and blue phlox are used to signify wisdom, understanding, and spirituality and are symbolic of lifetime love.

Types of phlox[]

There are more than 60 different types of phlox, most with star-shaped flowers that grow in clusters, and all varieties are perennial except for Drummond’s phlox which is an annual. There are a number of varieties of beautiful flowers that make great bedding plants, effective ground cover, and as a tall focal point for any flower bed.

White phlox[]

White phlox varieties recognized by the RHS, like White Admiral and Peacock White, have received awards. A popular choice for bouquets is White Flame, known for its large white blooms and strong scent. They thrive in herbaceous borders, near paths, and patios, offering both fragrance and clustered blooms. These phlox can grow in partial shade, attract butterflies, and add a captivating touch to floral displays.

Pink Phlox[]

Phlox offers a range of pink shades, from delicate to vibrant. ‘Cherry Pink’ is a popular choice, a long-flowering perennial that flowers from the middle of summer until halfway through the autumn. Varieties showcase different combinations: dark pink centers with paler outer petals, deeper pink petals with pale edges, and even pink centers with yellow outer petals. Clustered or tall stems provide various display options.

Cultural Significance[]

Throughout history, Creeping phlox has been revered in various cultures for its hardiness and ability to thrive in different environments. Its spread across gardens and natural landscapes has made it a symbol of resilience and adaptability. In some cultures, it is also associated with spiritual renewal and new beginnings, thanks to its vibrant springtime bloom.

Phlox is also culturally significant, appearing in literature dating back as far as the ancient Greeks. In Homer’s Odyssey, the sailors have to drop their torches onto the ground that then blooms with red phlox.

Phlox has medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat boils and to produce laxative effects.

Creeping phlox, with its dense clusters of blooms, primarily symbolizes harmony and unity. The way its flowers form a cohesive carpet across the ground speaks to the beauty of togetherness and mutual support. In the language of flowers, its presence can convey a sense of peace, portraying an environment free from discord.

Phlox facts[]

Phlox is native to North America and is found in a diverse array of habitats from woodlands to prairies, and even alpine tundra.
Phlox foliage is one of the main sources of nutrition for the larvae of the dot moth and the hummingbird hawk moth as well as deer, rabbits, and groundhogs.
Phlox is the focus of a number of flower festivals, including one called Fuji Shibazakura which celebrates a display of creeping phlox that covers the ground in front of Mount Fuji.
Knights in the Middle Ages would wear phlox flowers on their clothes which they would then remove at the end of an evening and present to the objects of their affection.
A number of Native American tribes traditionally used blue phlox flowers to treat gastrointestinal problems, turned the plants’ roots into eye-wash, and made the leaves into a soothing skin treatment.
In the Victorian language of flowers, phlox was a popular choice for bouquets and the message was one of the few that was an overt expression of affection as opposed to most flowers with much more subtle meanings.
Phlox has a number of commonly used names including fall phlox, perennial phlox, panicle phlox, summer phlox, and garden phlox.
There are a number of recognized cultivars of phlox including Star Fire, Velvet Flame, Mother of Pearl, Flamingo, and Alba Grandiflora.

In Victorian floriography (the cryptographic “language of flowers”), phlox meant “our souls are united,” or even “we think/feel alike.”
Planting it in a garden is said to encourage family harmony and unity within the household.
Another source holds that phlox flowers symbolize pleasant dreams and love.
Phlox is associated with the elements of Earth and Fire.

The best way to use phlox is to find a variety native to your area, and plant it. (If you’re in the eastern US, Phlox subulata makes a great substitute for turf grass.) The presence of phlox is said to encourage unity and peace, and forges a harmonious household.

You can also use phlox flowers based on their color. Include dried flowers in sachets, jar spells, or herbal offerings. Since they’re a very peace-love-and-harmony plant, that may affect your perception of what each color is good for. Pink flowers are the most suitable for love, and red for passion, while white or blue are best for peace and healing. Purple flowers are useful for meditative or spiritual pursuits. Oranges and yellows are helpful for positivity and optimism. This isn’t really a flower you’d want to include in, for example, banishing work.

Phlox is associated with protection, but, from the folklore and legends that I’ve seen, this mostly seems to be “protection from harm by calming hostilities.” It doesn’t seem to be a flower for more aggressive protection magic.

To harvest phlox flowers, pick them early in the morning — just after the dew has dried. Hang them upside-down somewhere dry and out of sunlight. (Dried flowers inevitably lose some of their color, but exposure to bright light can cause their colors to fade more.) Once the flowers are dry, store them in a jar in a cool, dark, dry area.

From Odysseus to Illimani and Illampu, phlox flowers are representations of hope, togetherness, and peace. Their legends talk about the senselessness of war and the relief that comes when peace is achieved. They’re excellent allies for works involving calming, hope, and unity.

How to plant and care for phlox[]

Perfect for Ground Cover[]

Creeping phlox is often used as ground cover in landscaping due to its low maintenance and robust nature. It’s commonly utilized in garden beds, rock gardens, and along pathways where its dense foliage and flowers can create an aesthetically pleasing effect. Its capacity to prevent soil erosion adds to its practical value in public and private gardens alike.

Springtime Celebrations[]

The blooming period of Creeping phlox, typically from late spring to early summer, makes it an ideal choice for springtime celebrations. Whether used in floral arrangements for events or as a natural decor on garden tours, its explosion of color heralds the season of growth and renewal. Its cheerful appearance perfectly aligns with ceremonies celebrating new beginnings, such as weddings, graduations, and other springtime festivities.

Planting and Maintenance[]

Creeping phlox thrives in well-drained soil with full or partial sunlight. Planting it where it can receive plenty of sunlight will ensure maximum bloom. Regular watering is essential during its growing season, but it’s also quite drought tolerant once established. Pruning after bloom can help maintain its shape and promote healthier growth.

Pest and Disease Control[]

While Creeping phlox is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and other fungal diseases if not properly cared for. Ensuring adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues. Additionally, using organic pesticides can keep pests at bay without harming beneficial insects.