Purple Prairie Phlox
Phlox pilosa
Purple Prairie Phlox is a fragrant native perennial with clusters of pink to purple five-petaled flowers perfectly designed for butterflies. Its sweet scent and vibrant blooms make it a spring to early summer favorite in prairies and gardens.
Polemoniaceae (Phlox family)
Late spring to early summer (May-July), occasional fall rebloom
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: phloxs and catananches also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The genus name Phlox comes from the Greek word for "flame," referring to the bright flower colors. The species name "pilosa" means hairy, describing the soft white hairs on stems, leaves, and flower tubes. Prairie Phlox exemplifies co-evolution with butterflies: its flat, broad petals serve as landing pads while the narrow tubular center is ideal for butterfly proboscises. It is an important nectar source for Monarch butterflies during spring migration. Prairie Phlox serves as host plant for the rare Phlox moth (Schinia indiana), which is critically imperiled throughout its range.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (best flowering in sun with at least 6 hours)
Water
Prefers dry to medium moisture; drought tolerant once established; benefits from consistent moisture during blooming
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Rocky, Clay loam, Adaptable
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in well-drained soil in sunny location
Light mulch in spring helps maintain even moisture
Spreads by rhizomes; may need division every few years
Good resistance to powdery mildew (unlike some garden phlox)
Watch for spider mites in hot, dry conditions
Deadhead spent flowers for tidier appearance
Rabbits and deer may browse foliage
Self-seeds modestly in favorable conditions
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Cottage gardens and perennial borders
- Rock gardens
- Prairie and wildflower meadows
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Cut flower gardens
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Purple Prairie Phlox
What is the difference between Prairie Phlox and Garden Phlox?
Prairie Phlox (Phlox pilosa) is a native wildflower that blooms in late spring, grows 1-2 feet tall, and has good powdery mildew resistance. Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) is taller (3-4 feet), blooms in summer, and is more susceptible to powdery mildew.
How can I tell Prairie Phlox from Dame's Rocket?
Prairie Phlox has five flower petals and opposite leaves, while the invasive Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis) has four petals and alternate leaves. This is the easiest way to distinguish these look-alikes that bloom at similar times.
Is Prairie Phlox good for Monarch butterflies?
Yes, Prairie Phlox is an important early-season nectar source for Monarch butterflies during their spring migration northward. The flower's shape is perfectly adapted for butterfly feeding, with flat petals as landing pads and a narrow nectar tube.
Does Prairie Phlox spread aggressively?
Prairie Phlox spreads slowly by rhizomes to form clumps. It is not aggressive but may need division every few years to control spread in small gardens. It self-seeds modestly and can persist indefinitely in ideal conditions.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Phlox
Phlox paniculata (Garden Phlox)
Garden Phlox is a beloved summer-blooming perennial with fragrant flower clusters that attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden.
Catananche
Catananche caerulea
Catananche, known as Cupid's Dart, is a drought-tolerant perennial with papery blue flowers surrounded by silvery bracts. It symbolizes love, attraction, and the power to pierce hearts with romance.
Scarlet Prairie Phlox
Phlox pilosa
Prairie Phlox is a fragrant, mound-forming native perennial wildflower of the open prairies, savannas, and dry woodlands of central and eastern North America. Its domed clusters of tubular five-petaled flowers in pink, lavender, and rose light up the spring prairie with sweet fragrance, symbolizing harmony, sweet affection, and the generous spirit of the open grassland in bloom.