Summer Phlox - NICKY (Plant/ Root)

Phlox paniculata ‘Nicky’ is one of the most dramatic tall garden phlox cultivars available — producing the darkest, most glowing magenta flowers of all garden phlox, nearly continuously throughout summer atop dense clumps of medium green foliage. Fragrant; brings blooms indoors for cut flower arrangements. Demonstrated good mildew resistance in trials. Attractive to hummingbirds. A staple perennial border plant that mixes beautifully with other perennials in a wide range of garden styles. Hardy in zones 4–9.

Plant Highlights

• Deepest magenta of all tall garden phlox — glowing, eye-catching color produced nearly all summer
• Fragrant blooms; excellent cut flower; attractive to hummingbirds
• Good mildew resistance demonstrated in trials
• Mixes beautifully with other perennials; a classic perennial border staple
• Hardy in zones 4–9; tolerates clay soil

Planting Guide

Planting: Dig a hole large enough to accommodate roots without bending or circling. Set the crown 1–2 inches below the soil surface. Backfill and water thoroughly. Grow in moderately fertile, medium-wet, well-drained soil in full sun to light shade — best in full sun.

Soil & moisture: Prefers rich, moist, organic soils. Intolerant of drought — water during dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to reduce mildew risk. Apply a summer mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.

Air circulation: Space plants well and thin stems as needed to promote good airflow — critical for mildew prevention.

Deadheading: Remove faded flower panicles promptly to prolong the bloom period and prevent unwanted self-seeding.

Fertilizing: Fertilize at transplanting and once every spring thereafter.

Planting Specs

• Type: Hardy perennial (plant/root)
• Bloom: Deep glowing magenta — darkest of all tall garden phlox
• Bloom season: Nearly all summer
• Fragrance: Yes
• Mildew resistance: Good
• Attracts: Hummingbirds
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours); tolerates light shade
• Soil moisture: Moist; tolerates clay soil
• USDA Zones: 4–9
• Use: Perennial borders, cut flower gardens, bird gardens