Origin and Common Names
Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry, commonly known as alpine phlox or prostrate phlox, is a low-growing perennial plant found in the Rock Mountains of North America. This plant is well-adapted to harsh alpine environments where it grows on rocky slopes and meadows.
Appearance
The prostrate phlox grows up to a height of 2-10 cm and spreads up to 30 cm. It has small, narrow leaves that are needle-like and arranged in an opposite pattern. The flowers of the plant are funnel-shaped, pink-lilac in color with a yellow center, and grow up to 1 cm wide. The prostrate phlox blooms in early summer, and its flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Uses
The prostrate phlox is an ornamental plant, often grown in rock gardens. It spreads rapidly and can be used as a ground cover. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used by Native Americans to treat a variety of health problems, including stomach aches, respiratory illnesses, and skin infections. The plant has antimicrobial properties and can be applied topically to treat cuts, bruises and insect bites.
Growth Conditions for Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry
Light: Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry prefers to grow in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer blooms.
Temperature: This plant is native to high elevations in the Rocky Mountains. It is cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers cool temperatures and grows best when daytime temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures range from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil: Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and pH levels should range from 5.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate sandy soils as well as rocky and gravelly soils.
Water: This plant prefers to grow in moist soils but can tolerate drought conditions once established. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Application of a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and blooming of the plant.
Propagation: Propagation of Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry can be done by division or by taking stem cuttings. Division is best done in early spring or fall, while stem cuttings can be taken in summer or fall.
Other requirements: This plant does not typically require any special care or maintenance. However, it is important to monitor for any pests or diseases, and prune as needed to promote healthy growth and shape.
Cultivation
Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry is a semi-evergreen perennial that requires a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 4 to 8. The best time to plant Phlox austromontana is in spring when the soil has warmed up, although fall planting is also possible.
Watering Needs
Phlox austromontana requires consistent watering during the growing season to prevent the soil from drying out. This plant is drought-tolerant, but excessive dryness can lead to stunted growth and reduced blooming. Ideally, the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss through evaporation. During the winter, reduce watering to allow the plant to rest.
Fertilization
Phlox austromontana benefits from a yearly application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid excessive fertilization, as this can lead to leggy growth and reduced blooming. It is also essential to avoid application of fertilizers in the late summer or fall, as this can interfere with the plant's ability to harden-off properly for winter. Adding organic matter to the soil can also help improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning Phlox austromontana is not necessary, but deadheading can help promote repeat blooming. This should be done after the first flush of flowers has faded. Cut back the stems to just above the first or second set of leaves. Pruning can also be used to control the plant's size and shape. This should be done in early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry
The plant Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry, commonly known as mountain phlox, is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is a native to the western United States and is known for its attractive flowers and ground-hugging growth habit. Propagation of this plant can be done using several methods.
Division
One of the easiest and most effective ways to propagate Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata is through division. This method involves digging up the mature plant, separating the root ball into several pieces and replanting them in separate locations. This should be done during the spring or fall when the plant is not in bloom, and the soil is moist and workable.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate the plant is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from the stem of a mature plant and planting it in a potting mix or rooting hormone. The cutting should be taken during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. It is essential to ensure the soil is moist and the cutting is kept in a shaded area until it develops roots.
Seed Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through seeds. However, the seeds require special treatment before planting to ensure successful germination. The seeds should be stratified for about 4-6 weeks in a moist medium at a temperature of about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. After stratification, the seeds should be planted in a potting mix and kept in a shaded area until they develop into seedlings. This method is best done during the fall in preparation for the next growing season.
Disease and Pest Management for Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry
Phlox austromontana Coville ssp. prostrata (E. Nels.) Wherry, commonly known as prairie phlox, is a beautiful flowering plant that grows in rocky or gravelly areas of the western United States. It is resistant to many common diseases and pests, making it an easy plant to care for. Despite its hardiness, there are still some diseases and pests that can cause problems, and it is important to know how to manage these issues.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect prairie phlox is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to water the plants at the base, avoid planting in areas with poor air circulation, and remove infected plant material.
Another disease that can affect prairie phlox is leaf spot. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small spots on the leaves. The spots can be black, brown, or yellow, and they can merge to form larger areas of damage. To manage leaf spot, it is important to water the plants at the base, avoid overcrowding, and remove infected plant material.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect prairie phlox is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap out of the leaves of the plant. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and can cause a stippled appearance on the foliage. To manage spider mites, it is important to spray the plants with water to dislodge them, avoid over-fertilizing, and remove infected plant material.
Another pest that can affect prairie phlox is the aphid. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be green, black, or brown in color. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and distorted flowers. To manage aphids, it is important to spray the plants with water to dislodge them, use beneficial insects like ladybugs to eat them, and remove infected plant material.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can help keep your prairie phlox thriving and healthy.
