Plant Profile: Phlox nivalis

This native perennial thrives in the mountainous regions, piedmont, and coastal plains of North Carolina. It prefers hot, well-drained environments, particularly in the sandhill and dry areas of central North and South Carolina. The plant forms a dense, evergreen mat that reaches about 6 inches in height, featuring glossy, stiff, needle-like leaves and vibrant pink flowers that bloom for a few weeks each spring.

Trailing Phlox stands out as a resilient groundcover, distinguishing itself from other Phlox species due to its semi-woody nature and preference for more acidic soil conditions.