Enchant Your Garden with Phlox drummondii ‘Cherry Caramel’
Phlox drummondii ‘Cherry Caramel’ introduces a unique blend of antique charm and modern appeal to your garden. This annual phlox variety showcases clusters of cream-caramel and soft pink flowers, each adorned with a cherry-pink center, creating a captivating display reminiscent of coffee, raspberry, and cream. With its long, branching, wiry stems, ‘Cherry Caramel’ is not only a visual delight in flower beds and borders but also an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, offering a sweet fragrance that enhances any bouquet.
Growing Conditions
Phlox drummondii ‘Cherry Caramel’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. This variety is tolerant of low temperatures but does not survive being frozen, making it suitable for the UK climate. Reaching a height of 30–50 cm (12–20 inches), it adds a charming presence to garden beds, borders, and containers.
Planting Guide
Sow seeds indoors in early spring, covering them lightly with soil. Maintain a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F) for germination, which typically occurs within 10–21 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and grow on under glass until all risk of frost has passed. Harden off before planting outside, spacing plants approximately 30 cm (12 inches) apart to allow for full growth.
Care & Maintenance
Water plants at the base to prevent mildew, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage fresh blooms and extend the flowering period. Taller plants may require support with brushwood stems in exposed positions. Feeding at regular intervals throughout summer with a high-potash fertiliser will promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Flowering & Cut Flower Tips
Phlox drummondii ‘Cherry Caramel’ blooms from summer well into late autumn, providing a continuous display of enchanting flowers. For floral arrangements, harvest flowers early in the morning when they are fully open to ensure maximum vase life. Pinching out the growing tips encourages bushier growth, resulting in more abundant blooms.
Garden Impact
This phlox variety attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in your garden. Its unique colour palette pairs beautifully with other summer blooms, creating stunning displays in borders and flower beds. Combine with contrasting foliage plants to highlight its soft caramel and pink tones.
Additional Notes
At the end of the season, collect dried seed heads to save seeds for future planting. Store seeds in a cool, dry place for best results.
