Product Description
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' PP29911 (25) Bare Root Plants
Fashionably Early Series
Common Name: Hybrid Phlox
Fashionably Early Flamingo’ 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. Perfectly defined panicles of light lavender pink flowers bloom prolifically well into midsummer with some rebloom in fall. Broad, thick, bright green 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: 30-36 Inches
Spread: 26-30 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 4,5,6,7,8
Flower Color: Pink shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 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 Flamingo' is a hybrid variety of garden phlox that's highly sought after for its remarkably early bloom time, extended flowering season, and impressive mildew resistance. This exceptional perennial bursts into bloom a remarkable 2-3 weeks earlier than other tall garden phlox varieties, gracing gardens with fragrant, light lavender-pink flowers that persist well into midsummer and reliably rebloom in the fall. This early arrival makes it a truly valuable addition to any garden, providing a vibrant display of color when many other plants are just beginning to awaken or are fading from their peak.
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' possesses a unique combination of features that make it a standout choice for gardeners:
- Early Bloom Time: Living up to its name, 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' is a trendsetter in the garden, blooming weeks ahead of its phlox counterparts. This extends the overall phlox season, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for an even longer period.
- Long Blooming Season: The floral spectacle begins in early summer and continues through midsummer, with the added bonus of a repeat performance in the fall.
- Mildew Resistance: Powdery mildew, a common foe of phlox, is no match for 'Fashionably Early Flamingo'. This variety exhibits exceptional resistance, making it a low-maintenance and worry-free addition to your garden. This inherent resistance is a significant advantage, as powdery mildew can be a persistent problem for phlox, often marring their appearance and hindering their growth.
- Fragrant Flowers: The delicate, light lavender-pink flowers not only please the eye but also entice the senses with a sweet and alluring fragrance. Imagine stepping into your garden on a warm summer evening and being greeted by the delightful perfume of 'Fashionably Early Flamingo'.
- Attractive Foliage: The beauty of 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' extends beyond its blossoms. Its broad, thick, bright green leaves provide a lush backdrop for the flowers and remain vibrant and healthy throughout the growing season.
- Gentle Spreading Habit: Unlike some other phlox varieties that grow in dense clumps, 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' spreads gradually outwards by sending out stolons. This makes it an excellent choice for filling in gaps in borders or creating a flowing, naturalistic look in your garden.
- Mature Size: This phlox typically reaches a height of 30-36 inches and a width of 26-30 inches, making it a substantial presence in the garden without being overwhelming.
Growing Conditions Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' thrives in a sunny location, basking in at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It prefers moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil. Good air circulation is essential for this plant, especially for preventing mildew.
Care
- Watering: Provide regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. However, be sure to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and potential root rot. Avoid overhead watering, as this can increase the risk of mildew, even for resistant varieties. Instead, water at the base of the plant.
- Fertilizing: To support healthy growth and abundant blooms, fertilize your 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' every other month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. This also helps maintain a tidy appearance and prevents unwanted self-seeding.
- Cutting Back: Once the flowering season is over, cut back the stems to promote vigorous new growth and potentially stimulate a second flush of blooms.
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps to keep the root zone cool, retain moisture, and suppress weed growth. Organic mulches, such as shredded bark or compost, are ideal.
Origins and Pollinators Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' is a hybrid variety developed from North American native species. It belongs to the P. paniculata group, which is known for its tall, sturdy stems and large flower clusters. This phlox is a magnet for pollinators, with its fragrant flowers attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. By including 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' in your garden, you will not only enhance its beauty but also contribute to the health of the local ecosystem by providing a valuable source of food for these essential creatures.
Companion Plants To create a stunning display in your garden, consider pairing Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' with other perennials that have similar growing requirements and complementary colors. Some excellent companion plants include:
- Echinacea (Coneflower): These vibrant flowers come in a wide range of colors and bloom around the same time as phlox.
- Hemerocallis (Daylilies): Daylilies provide a long-lasting display of color and come in a variety of heights and flower forms.
- Monarda (Bee Balm): Bee balm attracts pollinators with its fragrant flowers and adds a touch of wildness to the garden.
- Rudbeckia fulgida (Black-Eyed Susan): These cheerful flowers provide a burst of sunshine yellow and contrast beautifully with the lavender-pink phlox.
Phlox 'Fashionably Early Flamingo' is a true gem in the world of perennials. Its early bloom time, extended flowering season, and resistance to powdery mildew make it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for any garden. The fragrant, lavender-pink flowers and attractive foliage create a stunning display that will be the envy of your neighbors. Whether planted in borders, as a specimen, or used in cut flower arrangements, this phlox is sure to bring years of beauty and enjoyment. Do not miss the opportunity to add this exceptional perennial to your garden this season!
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!
