Phlox paniculata Laura

Phlox paniculata 'Laura', also known as Garden Phlox, is a large variety full of dynamism. The plant is in flower from mid-summer to autumn, offering generous conical and fragrant panicles formed of magenta pink flowers, illuminated by a pale pink to white centre, which stand out well against a very healthy dark green narrow foliage. Excellent in borders and bouquets, this variety with strong stems rarely requires staking. 'Laura' is considered resistant to fungal diseases. Phlox paniculata are perennials that prefer sunny and moist soils.

Phlox paniculata Laura belongs to the family of Polemoniaceae. It is an easy to grow and undemanding variety, derived from Phlox paniculata, native to the fertile and fresh meadows of the eastern United States. 'Laura' is a perennial herbaceous plant with a woody stump that slowly forms a compact clump of leafy stems reaching 70 cm (28in) to 1 m (3ft) in height and 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24in) in width. The stiff and sturdy stems do not require staking. They are covered with 12 cm (5in) long, alternate, simple, narrow and lanceolate leaves, which are dark green and very elegant. The flowers, which are particularly long-lasting, begins in early July, at the height of summer, and continues until October, provided that faded inflorescences are removed. The flowers have a tubular corolla of a bright and vibrant colour, magenta pink to fuchsia, surrounding a central white zone, centred on a tiny black eye. They are clustered at the end of the stems in dense and fragrant panicles, reaching a length of 20 cm (8in), gracefully bending the stems. The flowering is attractive to bees and nectar-feeding insects.

Phlox 'Laura' is a reliable and sturdy plant, appreciated and planted in gardens for its ease of cultivation. It can be planted in perennial borders, in the company of white, blue, red or subtly violet blooms with which it forms perfect colourful associations. Pair it with lavender blue asters, blue-violet Phlox Border Gem, or red peonies with which it forms an elegant contrast. Phlox paniculata make good companions for bush roses, and their colours compliment each other. Given its abundant flowering, beautiful bouquets can be made for the home.