Phlox paniculata 'Nicky'

Tall Phlox

Phlox paniculata ‘Nicky’ is an upright herbaceous perennial garden phlox known for some of the darkest magenta-purple to deep purple flowers among tall garden phlox. The fragrant, tubular flowers are held in large pyramidal clusters above narrow green foliage from mid to late summer, sometimes continuing into early fall. It is a strong choice for perennial borders, cottage gardens, pollinator plantings, and cut-flower gardens, with good mildew resistance when given proper spacing and air circulation.

Type: Herbaceous perennial
Mature Size: 18–24 in. wide x 24–36 in. tall
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Upright clump-forming perennial
Light: Full sun to light shade; best flowering in full sun
Soil / Water: Rich, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil; keep evenly moist and avoid drought stress
Bloom Time / Length: Mid to late summer, sometimes into early fall; about 4–6 weeks
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Features & Landscape Uses: Deep magenta-purple flowers; fragrant blooms; mildew-resistant foliage; excellent cut flower; useful in mixed borders, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, and mass plantings. The dark flower color pairs well with white, pink, lavender, silver foliage, ornamental grasses, and yellow-green companion plants.

Care: Plant with good spacing for air circulation. Water at the base rather than overhead to reduce mildew issues. Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist. Deadhead spent flowers to keep plants neat and encourage additional bloom. Divide clumps every few years if flowering or vigor declines. 

Plant type

Perennial

Height

24-36''

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Fuchsia

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Mass Planting

Shape

Clump, Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No