Perennial of the week

Peppermint twist
phlox paniculata

Happy Wednesday everyone! We are halfway through the work week and it's been quite a nice week for weather (as compared to the scorch of last week). Our "lake" on the property has finally dried up and all the trees, plants, and shrubbery are growing faster than ever! 

​This week's "Perennial of the Week" comes with a little 'twist.' This segment will be highlighting the Peppermint Twist phlox. Also known as 'garden phlox,' this dazzling perennial blooms in shades of pink and white between the summer months of July and September. Often, Peppermint Twist reaches heights of 1-5 feet and spreads about the same. Blossoming in clumps, the upright perennial is known for it's fragrance and bi-color uniqueness. The striking pink and white colors alternate in stripes resembling the spokes of a wheel.

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Peppermint Twist is a favorite of many gardeners' for its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Considering a bird or butterfly garden, the Peppermint Twist will be the perfect centerpiece. It's a relatively easy perennial to maintain as it tolerates most soils, but flourishes in fertile, well-drained soils. It combats powdery mildew if allowed space and is thinned as needed. 

​This perennial grows best in zones 4-8 (MN is zone 4), with full sun. This beauty will grow in partial shade, but prefers as much sun as it can get. In regards to heat, like many of us Minnesotans, it prefers the moderate summer temperatures and will require extra drink of water on those hot and muggy summer days (we've had a few of those lately!). 

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Ensuring that the plant's roots are cool allows itself to perform it's basic purpose- to take in water. The availability for these roots to function properly secures the plant's ability to absorb it's necessary nutrients and adorn it's alluring colors and pattern.

Garden Phlox is native from Arkansas, Mississippi, New York to Iowa and south to Georgia. Escaping gardens, it's begun to naturalize itself int areas outside of it's native perimeter. 

According to MissouriBotanicalGardens.org, derived from the Greek word 'phlox', the genus name means 'flame,' in reference to some varieties of the flower's intense color. A staple perennial for any border project, Peppermint Twist mixes exceptionally with fellow perennials and provides a lasting summer bloom. 

Peppermint Twist is sure to remain a favorite among floriculturists. It's dramatic, long blooming flora grants a marvelous show. Just gotta have one? Stop in Saturdays between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to grab yours! Hurry, before they're gone!
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                  We hope to see you soon. Until next time, have a wonderful week everyone.