Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Phlox subulata ‘Spring Scarlet’
Spring Scarlet Creeping Phlox
- Family
- Polemoniaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 inches tall
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Scarlet red
- Foliage color
- Green
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; trim back after flowering to promote new growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
About this plant
Phlox subulata 'Spring Scarlet', or Spring Scarlet creeping phlox, is a low-growing perennial prized for its vibrant scarlet red flowers and spreading habit. Native to North America, this Polemoniaceae family member blooms in early to mid-spring, often before the leaves fully develop, creating a carpet of color. The small, five-petaled flowers cover the foliage, which serves as an attractive backdrop.
Ideal for sunny garden areas, 'Spring Scarlet' is often used as ground cover in rock gardens, borders, and containers. It is low-maintenance, attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, and is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable and colorful addition to gardens.
Works well in
Rock Gardens · Borders · Pollinator Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Aubrietas · Potentillas · Catmints · Blanket flowers · Candytufts · Feather reed grasses
Design tip
Plant broad drifts on sunny slopes, rock gardens, or retaining walls where brilliant spring flowers can spill naturally over stone. Repeat evergreen groundcovers, compact shrubs, and upright flowering perennials to create vivid contrast, texture, and lasting seasonal structure.
