Quick answer: Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is native to 23 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Dry |
| Soil | Dry, sandy or rocky soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | Up to 8 in tall |
| Wildlife value | Conspicuous flowers attract pollinators |
none noted formally; cultivated color forms have escaped from cultivation in New England
Lookalike alert
Cultivar only ('Trot Pink' etc.) in all 6 states.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Creeping phlox
Where is Creeping phlox native?
Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is native to 23 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Creeping phlox bloom?
Creeping phlox blooms Mar-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Creeping phlox need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: High water, Dry. Soil: Dry, sandy or rocky soils. Mature height: Up to 8 in tall.
Is Creeping phlox good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Conspicuous flowers attract pollinators.
Is Creeping phlox deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Creeping phlox is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy real Creeping phlox seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Be aware that some sellers offer bred varieties under this name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Creeping phlox.
- Sweet-fern Comptonia peregrina
- Hairy beardtongue Penstemon hirsutus
- Sundial lupine Lupinus perennis
- Southern arrowwood Viburnum dentatum
- Lowbush blueberry Vaccinium angustifolium
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
Also listed under
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