Britton’s Phlox: A Lesser-Known Native Wildflower Worth Knowing
If you’ve stumbled across the name Britton’s phlox (Phlox subulata brittonii) in your plant research, you’ve discovered one of those botanical mysteries that keeps native plant enthusiasts on their toes. This perennial wildflower represents a specific variety within the beloved phlox family, though it’s not one you’ll easily find at your local garden center.
What Exactly Is Britton’s Phlox?
Britton’s phlox is a perennial forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant that comes back year after year. Like other members of its family, it’s classified as an herb, meaning it lacks the significant woody tissue that characterizes shrubs and trees. You might also encounter this plant under its synonyms: Phlox brittonii Small or Phlox subulata L. var. brittonii.
Where Does It Call Home?
This native wildflower has an interesting geographic story. It’s naturally found across several states including Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Curiously, it’s also established itself in Ontario, Canada, where it’s considered non-native but has successfully naturalized and reproduces on its own without human intervention.
- Species observed
- No observations
The Garden Reality Check
Here’s where things get a bit tricky for eager gardeners. While Britton’s phlox sounds like a delightful addition to any native plant collection, specific growing information for this particular variety is quite limited. Unlike its more famous cousin, the widely available moss phlox (Phlox subulata), detailed cultivation guides for this specific variety are hard to come by.
Should You Try to Grow It?
If you’re determined to grow Britton’s phlox specifically, you’ll face some challenges:
- Limited availability from nurseries and seed suppliers
- Scarce specific growing information
- Uncertainty about how it differs from other phlox varieties in garden performance
A Practical Alternative
For most gardeners interested in native phlox, consider exploring the more readily available Phlox subulata (moss phlox or creeping phlox). This closely related species offers:
- Wide availability from reputable native plant sources
- Well-documented growing requirements
- Proven garden performance
- Similar native range and ecological benefits
The Bottom Line
Britton’s phlox represents one of those fascinating botanical footnotes that remind us how complex and nuanced the plant world can be. While it’s certainly a legitimate native species worthy of conservation in its natural habitats, the practical gardener might be better served exploring the more accessible members of the phlox family.
If you do manage to source Britton’s phlox, treat it as you would other native phlox species and enjoy being part of a very exclusive gardening club. Just remember—sometimes the most interesting plants are the ones that remain a little mysterious.