Product Description
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' PP28679(25) Bare Root Plants
Fashionably Early Series
Common Name: Hybrid Phlox
‘Fashionably Early Crystal’ is a taller variety of Hybrid Phlox that will work best for the middle to back of the border. In addition to being early blooming, it boasts a long season of color. Pure white flowers with a faint light purple eye appear from early summer well into midsummer with some rebloom in fall. Broad, dark green, thick foliage stays beautiful all season.
This type of Hybrid Phlox blooms earlier than the average Tall Garden Phlox (P. paniculata), starting about 2-3 weeks earlier than the typical Phlox. Each member of the Fashionably Early series has exceptional mildew resistance, thick leathery leaves, and a stoloniferous habit (as opposed to the tightly clumping P. paniculata types).
These perennials are a favorite of gardeners around the world and a staple of North American native gardens. A favorite of pollinators. Phlox is unequaled for its showy blooms over a long period in summer. Though it is one of the most popular perennials available, it does require some maintenance to sustain its health and vigor.
Phlox grows best in rich, moist soil in full sun. It will thrive with fertilizing every other month and consistent moisture levels. Overhead watering should be avoided since some varieties of Phlox are susceptible to powdery mildew. This can be avoided or diminished by providing ample air circulation around the plants and by thinning them out periodically. Deadheading will prolong bloom time and prevent self-seeding.
Height: 28-32 Inches
Spread: 26-30 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 4,5,6,7,8
Flower Color: White shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)-Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Early Summer - Late Summer, Rebloomer, Long Blooming
Attracts Butterflies and Hummingbirds
Bee Friendly
Evergreen
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Container, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Fragrant Flowers, Mass Planting
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is a standout hybrid phlox cultivar developed by Walters Gardens. It distinguishes itself through its early bloom time, extended blooming season, and remarkable resistance to powdery mildew. This captivating perennial graces gardens with a profusion of pure white flowers, each adorned with a delicate light purple eye. Unlike other tall garden phlox varieties that typically bloom in mid-summer, 'Fashionably Early Crystal' begins its floral display as early as early summer, continuing into midsummer with the potential for rebloom in the fall. Its fragrant blossoms, described as having a light, sweet fragrance, are a haven for pollinators, attracting bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is a clump-forming perennial with an upright habit. It typically grows to a height of 28-32 inches and a width of 26-36 inches. The specific epithet "paniculata" refers to the plant bearing flowers in panicles, which are branched clusters of flowers. The flowers themselves are fragrant, exuding a delicate, sweet scent that adds to the plant's allure. The foliage is a deep green, thick, and leathery, creating a lush backdrop for the striking white blooms.
This cultivar belongs to the "Fashionably Early" series of hybrid phlox, known for their exceptional mildew resistance, thick leaves, and a stoloniferous habit. This means they spread by sending out horizontal stems (stolons) that root along the ground, allowing them to form colonies and fill in garden spaces effectively.
Growing Conditions Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is remarkably easy to grow, thriving in a variety of conditions. It prefers full sun to very light shade and enjoys moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
- Soil Type This phlox is adaptable to various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand. It thrives in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, can improve drainage and fertility, creating an ideal environment for the plant to flourish.
- Sunlight Needs While Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' prefers full sun, it can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates where afternoon shade can help protect the flowers from intense heat. For optimal flowering, aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Watering Frequency This phlox has average water needs. Water regularly during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as this can create a humid environment that promotes powdery mildew.
Care Requirements
- Planting Plant Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' in the spring or fall, spacing plants 26-30 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. When planting, ensure the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.
- Fertilizing This phlox generally does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of all-purpose garden fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients.
- Maintenance To encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance, regularly remove the faded flower clusters (deadhead). This practice also prevents self-seeding, which can lead to unwanted spreading. After the flowering season, cut back the stems to promote new growth and maintain the plant's shape. To ensure continued vigor and prevent overcrowding, divide the plants every few years in the spring or fall. For optimal rebloom, cut the plants back hard to about 6 inches after the first flush of flowers.
- Pests and Diseases Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is remarkably resistant to deer and black walnut. It also exhibits excellent resistance to powdery mildew, a common fungal disease that affects phlox. Providing adequate spacing between plants is crucial for air circulation, further reducing the risk of mildew and other fungal diseases.
- Propagation Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' can be easily propagated by division in the spring or autumn. This involves digging up the plant and separating it into sections, each with roots and shoots, which can then be replanted to create new plants.
Potential Uses Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is a versatile plant with a variety of applications in the garden.
- Attracting Pollinators: The fragrant flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens.
- Cut Flowers: The long stems and beautiful flower clusters make it a perfect choice for creating stunning cut flower arrangements.
- Garden Beds and Borders: Its height and long blooming period make it well-suited for the middle or back of borders, adding vibrant color and delightful fragrance to the garden.
- Containers: It can also be grown in containers, adding a touch of elegance to patios and decks.
- Rain Gardens: This phlox can tolerate moist conditions, making it a suitable choice for rain gardens.
- Medicinal Uses: While not specifically mentioned for 'Fashionably Early Crystal', wild blue phlox tea has historically been used to treat stomach and intestinal problems.
This phlox is a beautiful addition to various garden styles, including cottage gardens, native plant gardens, and pollinator gardens. Its adaptability and resilience make it a valuable asset in any landscape.
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is a truly exceptional perennial that offers a multitude of benefits for gardeners. Its early bloom time, extended flowering period, resistance to powdery mildew , and low-maintenance nature make it a top choice for any garden. Whether used in borders, containers, or as cut flowers, this phlox is sure to enhance your outdoor space with its beauty and fragrance.
While it has many advantages, it is important to be aware that Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' can spread through its stoloniferous habit. This can be managed by dividing the plants regularly or by planting them in areas where they have room to spread. Overall, the positives of this cultivar far outweigh any potential drawbacks, making it a worthwhile addition to any garden.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
