Phlox 'Opening Act Pink-a-Dot'

Opening Act Pink-a-Dot Hybrid Garden Phlox

Family: Polemoniaceae
Height: 22–26 inches
Width: 30–36 inches
Flower color: Near white with a dark pink central star pattern, giving an overall light pink appearance
Foliage color: Dark green and glossy
Bloom time: Early summer to early fall
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming; prune back in early spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 4–8
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

About this plant

Phlox 'Opening Act Pink-a-Dot' is a hybrid cultivar that blooms from early to mid-summer, producing near-white flowers with a dark pink central star pattern. The overall appearance of the flowers is light pink, and if spent flowers are sheared back, the plant may rebloom into early fall. Native to North America, this phlox is part of the Opening Act series, known for its early blooming and disease resistance.

The plant features dark green, glossy foliage that is mildew and disease resistant, making it a low-maintenance addition to the garden. It attracts pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, bringing life and energy to the garden. 'Opening Act Pink-a-Dot' is suitable for various garden settings, including borders, containers, and mass plantings, providing a long season of color and fragrance.

Works well in

Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens

Companion plants

Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes

Design tip

Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Center for Urban Horticulture.