Phlox paniculata Becky Towe

Phlox paniculata 'Becky Towe' has a unique variegated foliage. Its beautiful light green leaves, marginated in yellow and then white bring a touch of brightness to summer planting beds. These large panicles are not to be outdone: made up of multiple small carmine pink flowers with a darker eye which are vibrant and vivid. They bloom in July and August, attracting butterflies and providing us with cheerful and colourful bouquets.

Phlox paniculata are essential in all cottage or romantic gardens. Their bushy habit is perfect for mixed borders and their size allows them to be interspersed at different levels. Their flowering is abundant, colourful, fragrant, and they bring the flower beds to life with the coming and going of insects that are very fond of them. Don't hesitate to adopt them in large numbers, they will allow you to also create long-lasting bouquets. They appreciate damp, well-drained, and rather rich soil. Their flowering is more spectacular in the sun, but they also thrive in partial shade. They are hardy and tolerate temperatures to - 15°C (59°F). To enjoy a long flowering period, don't hesitate to remove faded flowers as they appear.

This vigorous herbaceous perennial has erect stems, reaching 70 cm (28in) in height, bearing large panicles at their tops made up of multiple small flowers measuring 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter. Their corolla, long tubular at the base, abruptly opens into five lobes and takes the shape of a cup, giving them a star-like appearance. Packed side by side, they form a beautiful dome with intense shades. A pink tending towards carmine, highlighted by a darker centre. These warm colours are enhanced by foliage with sharper hues. The lanceolate leaves are light green in the centre with yellowish margins, evolving towards creamy white. Deciduous, they are arranged regularly along the stems in an alternate manner.

'Becky Towe' is a Phlox that can reach a spread of 50 cm (20in). It fits easily into summer flower beds with bright colours. It will thrive in a multicoloured ensemble alongside Echinaceas, Dahlias, Lupins, and all its Phlox cousins. You can play with several other themes: pink, with hybrid Lobelia 'Monet Moment' and Monarda 'Croftway pink' or variegated, with Caryopteris divaritaca 'Electrum' and Heucherella 'Stoplight'.