Phlox paniculata Goldmine

Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' is a remarkably colourful variety of Phlox paniculata that stands out in flower beds, even when just in leaf: it combines abundant variegated yellow-green foliage with cream-coloured margins and beautiful flowers in shades of magenta pink to cherry pink, which is also pleasantly scented. The overall effect is a truly surprising bouquet of leaves and flowers. Good disease resistance and good performance in flower beds are other advantages of this rather compact phlox. For example, pair it with the globe thistle (Echinops ritro) or a perennial geranium Rozanne in a beautifully floral scene all summer long!

Phlox paniculata 'Goldmine' belongs to the family of Polemoniaceae. It is a long-lived perennial herbaceous plant with a woody stump, which develops from spring into a small bushy clump with an upright habit, composed of well-leafed stems. The plant will reach an average height of 60-65cm (24-26in) when in flower and a width of 40cm (16in). The stems, stiff and strong, are green in colour and covered with alternate, simple, ovate and lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, measuring 10-12cm (4-5in) in length. The young leaves are irregularly variegated with yellow-green. The mature leaves, on the other hand, are a rather dark grey-green, adorned with a wide cream-white margin. The flowering period extends from July to August, and sometimes until September if faded inflorescences are removed. The dark pink flowers, with tubular corollas opening into 5 petals, measure 3.7 to 4cm (2in) in diameter. They are grouped at the top of strong stems in pyramid-shaped panicles which are pleasantly scented and nectar-rich.

Phlox paniculata is a perennial plant commonly found in cottage gardens, as its simplicity and legendary generosity are almost unmatched in perennial flower beds. They associate well with all kinds of plants, but we particularly like them next to roses, astilbes and grasses. They are also enhanced by silver, grey or purple foliage: artemisias, cinerarias, Stachys or Amaranthus Velvet Curtains.  Phlox 'Goldmine', decorative from spring to autumn and of modest stature, can also adorn the patio or balcony when planted in a beautiful pot.