Phlox x paniculata 'Fashionably Early Crystal'

The  Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is part of a new series of selected hybrids known for their early and long flowering, as well as for their excellent disease resistance. Of medium stature, 'Crystal' is also distinguished by its tendency to produce suckers, which allows it to form sumptuous clusters of flowers in sunny borders. The abundance of its white flowers is such that the plant seems to disappear for almost 3 months under a very clear cloud, subtly fragrant. Excellent in borders or in a vase, this perennial goes well with all garden flowers. This bright, floriferous and graceful Phlox has its place in a flower garden, whether it be a countryside, English or romantic style.   

The Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal', recently selected by Walter Gardens in Michigan, USA, belongs to the family of Polemoniaceae. This beautiful improvement of the variety 'Minnie Pearl' is a hybrid of Phlox carolina, a very hardy plant with large leaves, native to North Carolina. It prefers non-calcareous, fertile and fresh soils.

A slightly stoloniferous woody perennial, it slowly forms a clump of leafy stems reaching a minimum height of 75 cm (30in) and a minimum width of 60 cm (24in). The stems, stiff and strong, sometimes require staking. They are covered with alternate, simple, wide, thick, leathery, ovate and lanceolate leaves, dark green, very resistant to fungal diseases that often affect tall phlox, such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. Flowering begins in June (sometimes as early as May), and continues until July if faded inflorescences are removed. This variety often reblooms in early autumn. The small flowers have a tubular corolla white when they open, then turning pale lavender around a pale pink-red heart. They are clustered at the end of the stems in dense and fragrant panicles, gracefully curving the stems. The flowering is attractive to bees and nectar-loving insects.

The Phlox 'Fashionably Early Crystal' is a reliable, floriferous and sturdy plant that is both charming and full of character. It can be planted in perennial borders, alongside orange, blue, pink, red, or even yellow blooms, as its white panicles complement all garden colors. For example, pair it with asters, goldenrods, tall delphiniums, or red peonies for an elegant contrast. Panicled Phloxes make good companions for bush roses, creating a harmonious color scheme.  Given its early, abundant and prolonged flowering, beautiful bouquets can be made for the home without moderation.