Phlox pulivinata
We are pleased to introduce Phlox pulvinata to cultivation from a recent seed collection in Oregon’s rugged and beautiful Wallowa Mountains. This is one of the most remarkable of the cushion-forming alpine phloxes, forming dense, silvery-green mounds that hug tightly to the rock, looking as if carved directly from the granite itself. In spring, the cushions become smothered with pure white to soft pink blossoms, creating a luminous display against the foliage.
A true alpine gem, Phlox pulvinata is native to high ridges and windswept talus slopes, where it thrives in lean, well-drained soils and full exposure. In the garden, it shows its best character in troughs, crevice gardens, and elevated rockwork where its compact, architectural form can be fully appreciated.
Hardy to at least USDA Zone 4, this selection represents an exciting addition to the trade, offering gardeners a chance to grow a piece of the Wallowas’ alpine flora. This collection comes from over 8,000’ in elevation on the East facing slopes looking out over Hells Canyon and Idahos Sawtooth Mountains.
This species will appreciate full sun and sharply drained soil with a gritty or sandy composition. Ideal for rock gardens, crevices, troughs, and raised beds where excess moisture drains quickly. Water sparingly once established, as overly rich soil or heavy watering can shorten its lifespan. Best suited for gardeners comfortable with true alpine plants—where given the right setting, it will reward with long-lived, jewel-like cushions and unforgettable spring bloom.
We are pleased to introduce Phlox pulvinata to cultivation from a recent seed collection in Oregon’s rugged and beautiful Wallowa Mountains. This is one of the most remarkable of the cushion-forming alpine phloxes, forming dense, silvery-green mounds that hug tightly to the rock, looking as if carved directly from the granite itself. In spring, the cushions become smothered with pure white to soft pink blossoms, creating a luminous display against the foliage.
A true alpine gem, Phlox pulvinata is native to high ridges and windswept talus slopes, where it thrives in lean, well-drained soils and full exposure. In the garden, it shows its best character in troughs, crevice gardens, and elevated rockwork where its compact, architectural form can be fully appreciated.
Hardy to at least USDA Zone 4, this selection represents an exciting addition to the trade, offering gardeners a chance to grow a piece of the Wallowas’ alpine flora. This collection comes from over 8,000’ in elevation on the East facing slopes looking out over Hells Canyon and Idahos Sawtooth Mountains.
This species will appreciate full sun and sharply drained soil with a gritty or sandy composition. Ideal for rock gardens, crevices, troughs, and raised beds where excess moisture drains quickly. Water sparingly once established, as overly rich soil or heavy watering can shorten its lifespan. Best suited for gardeners comfortable with true alpine plants—where given the right setting, it will reward with long-lived, jewel-like cushions and unforgettable spring bloom.