Yes, Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox can be divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and create new plants. Best timing is early spring before blooming or fall after flowering ends. Divide the spreading mat into sections with roots attached, then replant immediately. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy starter plants that establish quickly.

Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox

Name: Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 14362
Price: 28.47 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.23 (13 reviews)

Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe'

Bicolor White Petals with Pink Mid-Stripe Blooms Twice Yearly After Deadheading
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-9
Grows 1 ft Tall, 2 ft Wide
Showy Pink, White Blooms From Early Spring to Late Spring
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Pollution Tolerant

$28⁴⁷

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Plant Size

#1 Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Evergreen, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Heat Tolerant, Groundcover, Slopes/Erosion Control, Attracts pollinators, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	3a to 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	1 ft
Width	2 ft
Watering Needs	Low
Preferred Soil	Chalky, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Bushy, Spreading, Trailing
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Pink, White
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Pet Safety	Non-toxic to pets, Non-toxic to horses
Suitable Space	Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name	Phlox
Botanical Name	Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe'
Species	subulata
Cultivar	Candy Stripe
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

The easy-going Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe') is an ideal ground cover with blanketing masses of tiny, white flowers with a pink mid-stripe and a thick mat of semi-evergreen foliage!

Initially blooming from April to May, this Phlox variety has a plant height of 6" and a spread of 12-18" once mature. But after some quick deadheading as the blooms fade, you'll encourage a rebloom later in the growing season! Much to the delight of your pollinators and Hummingbirds in search of a nectar resource twice a year!

Hardy throughout USDA growing zones 3 to 9, this easy-to-grow perennial won't be the only one to completely fall in love with this beauty, but at least deer will not be too interested. This semi-to-fully evergreen creeping Phlox shines for many weeks in early spring...lavishly covered with petite star-shaped flowers that are adored by all. Phlox is space-saving and stays snug to the ground, nestling softly into its planting place!

Planting and Application:

These pinwheels are magnificent additions to any perennial garden. You can use Candy Stripe Phlox in Rock Gardens, as a ground covering spread over curbs and short retaining walls, or in difficult edges of dry streambeds or hard-to-mow hillsides! Perfect in more xeric conditions, Fire-Wise defensible plans, and as gorgeous erosion control!

Add some pep to your foundation plantings with an incredible "carpet of color". These low-growing lovelies are perfect for garden and pathway edging! Use as facer plants to hide the bare, leggier stems of larger trees and shrubs! The brilliant skirting of fine-textured flowers and foliage adds a finishing touch to your garden design!

These spreading Phlox are perfect as en masse blankets that cover the ground like living mulch. Plant Creeping Phlox near the base of your hedges on the side that stays sunny. If needed, add extra soil to create a planting pocket for these small, spreading plants to flourish in.

Try some in containers on your sunny patio as fillers and spillers, and in mixed planters, even sunny window boxes too!

Blankets of Fine-Textured Foliage & Tiny Flowers
White Petals With Bold Pink Stripe
Mat-Forming Low-Growing Perennials
Can Be Semi-Evergreen in Mild Winters
Full Sun Groundcover, Erosion, En Masse, Containers & Edging!

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Select a planting site in full sun with well-drained, enriched soil. For best results, supply these hardy perennials with supplemental water on a regular basis and a 3-4 inch thick layer of arborist mulch. Cold-hardy throughout USDA growing zones 4 to 8, you’ll enjoy year-round greenery in the mild winters of zones 7 and 8. Phlox are unfussy about soil type and pH and are the perfect choice for low-maintenance landscapes and new gardeners. Carpet Phlox even displays some tolerance to salt, as well!

Deadhead by sheering Creeping Phlox immediately after the flowers fade and you may just enjoy a rebloom later in the growing season! The Phlox clumps may be divided every 2 to 3 years in early spring, to promote healthy growth. It's recommended to prune in the summer, right after spring flowering is finished, to get a lovely second rebloom in the fall. The Candy Stripe Groundcover Phlox can handle a variety of climate extremes and works in even the coldest climates, up to growing zone 3.

Full Sun
Moderate Regular Moisture & Well-Drained Soil
Can Remain Evergreen in Mild Winters
Prune/Shear After Flowering
Resistant, Adaptable & Easy to Grow!

The lovely Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox is so easy to grow and can be used in so many applications! Order your very own Candy Stripes for your garden from Nature Hills today before it's too late!

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This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.

Arrived in great condition!

Not flowering yet

Not flowering yet. Haven't seen much growth at all.

Beautiful phlox!

Beautiful phlox and it arrived in lovely condition!

Creeping phlox is such a reliable bloomer, and it really does set up best when it arrives in good shape, so that is a great sign. Give it full sun and let it spread, and it should reward you with a carpet of color every spring. Thanks for sharing, Laurie. The Nature Hills Team

Haven't been planted very long

Haven't been planted very long

Dear Sally,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! We’re glad to hear that your plants are beginning their journey with you, even if they haven’t been planted very long. It’s always an exciting time to watch new plants settle in and start to grow.

If you have any questions about caring for your recent plants—whether it’s tips on watering, soil, sunlight, or anything else—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you nurture them every step of the way.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

AWESOME GROUND COVERING

What a beautiful contained ground covering. In a certain light in the evening it gives off almost a flourescent hue. And the leaves stay green throughout the winter.

Hi Hilary,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! It’s truly a joy to hear how its vibrant coloration brings such a special glow to your evening garden, and that the evergreen foliage keeps your landscape lively even through the winter months. This plant's ability to provide year-round beauty makes it a favorite among ground coverings, and it sounds like it’s doing just that in your outdoor space.

If you’re ever looking to enhance or expand your living tapestry, you might enjoy mixing in some complementary bloom times or textures—plants like cotoneaster or dwarf junipers can contrast nicely. Also, be sure to check on soil moisture during dry spells to keep those leaves lush and thriving.

Your feedback brightens our day as much as that gentle evening glow does your garden!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Groundcover

I needed a full sun ground cover and the Emerald Blue does that and is pretty besides.

Hi Jerome,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We’re delighted to hear it’s thriving in full sun and adding some extra beauty to your garden. It’s truly a fantastic groundcover that brings encanting color and can really help fill in those sunny spots.

If you ever want to encourage even more blooms, just be sure the soil drains well and consider trimming it back lightly after flowering to maintain a neat, lush appearance. And if you have any questions about companion plants or extending the growing season, we’re always here to help!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Groundcover

I needed a full sun ground cover and the Emerald Blue does that and is pretty besides.

Hi Jerome,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We're delighted to hear it’s been a perfect fit for your full sun groundcover needs and that you’re enjoying its beautiful appearance. This versatile plant really does brighten up any sunny spot while helping to reduce weeds.

If you ever need tips on keeping it thriving—like ideal watering schedules or ways to promote fuller bloom—please don’t hesitate to reach out. For instance, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings and ensuring good air circulation can keep your phlox healthy and vibrant. Feel free to explore our blog for more detailed care guides too!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Flowers

Love the purple eye when it flowers. Wonderful groundcover.

Hi Dot,

Thank you so much for sharing your love for the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We couldn’t agree more—the purple eye is such a charming feature, and it really makes this groundcover stand out beautifully in any garden. It’s wonderful to hear it’s working well for you.

If you’re ever looking to enhance its bloom or care routine, ensuring it gets plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil can help it thrive even more. Also, a light trim after it finishes flowering can encourage healthy growth and keep your groundcover looking fresh.

Thanks again for taking the time to leave us your feedback—we truly appreciate it!

Grow ing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

Flowers

Love the purple eye when it flowers. Wonderful groundcover.

Hello Dot,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We're delighted to hear that the purple eye of its flowers has added such a charming touch to your garden. It truly is a fantastic groundcover, known for both its beauty and resilience.

If you’re looking to keep it thriving, remember it prefers well-drained soil and a sunny to partly shaded spot. Occasional pruning after flowering can encourage a denser spread and a longer bloom display next season. You might also enjoy mixing it with complementary perennials to add more texture and color dynamics to your garden.

Feel free to reach out anytime if you want personalized tips or have any questions about your plants?

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Groundcover

My emerald blue phlox have spread and completely filled in the area that I wanted to cover in four years. The spring flowers are a bonus.

Dear Sheryl,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful update about your Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We’re delighted to hear that it has effectively filled the area you wanted covered and that the spring blooms have been a lovely bonus. Your success story is exactly the type of feedback that brightens our day.

If you’re ever interested in maintaining the vigor and color of your phlox, you might consider gently trimming back the plants after flowering to encourage fresh growth and avoid overcrowding. Also, ensuring well-drained soil and adequate sunlight will help keep them thriving for years to come.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if you’re looking to complement your garden with other groundcovers or flowering plants — we’re excited to help!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Groundcover

My emerald blue phlox have spread and completely filled in the area that I wanted to cover in four years. The spring flowers are a bonus.

Dear Sheryl,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We’re thrilled to hear that your groundcover has spread beautifully and fully covered the area as planned. It’s always rewarding when a plant not only thrives but also surprises us with lovely springtime blooms.

If you’re interested in continuing to enhance your garden, this phlox responds well to a bit of light trimming after flowering, which can encourage even healthier growth and recon blooms next season. Also, keeping the area well mulched will help it retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback—it truly inspires us and other gardeners alike!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Groundcover

Bressingham Ruby Bergenia makes a very nice groundcover and the weeds do not overwhelm them.

AWESOME GROUND COVERING

What a beautiful contained ground covering. In a certain light in the evening it gives off almost a flourescent hue. And the leaves stay green throughout the winter.

Dear Hilary,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with the Emerald Blue Creeping Phlox! We’re thrilled to hear how its unique, almost fluorescent glow in evening light has added a special touch to your garden, and it’s fantastic that the evergreen leaves provide year-round beauty. This native ground cover truly shines with its vibrant appearance and resilience.

If you ever want tips on complementing your phlox with companion plants or maintaining its best qualities through the seasons, feel free to reach out. Many of our customers find that pairing it with shade-tolerant perennials helps extend color and texture across their garden space.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Creeping Phlox spread?

Yes, Creeping Phlox spreads to form dense mats 12-18 inches wide. This low-growing perennial stays just 6 inches tall while creating excellent ground cover. Plant individual specimens 12-18 inches apart to allow for natural spreading and full coverage within a few seasons.

What are the hardiness zones?

Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox thrives in USDA zones 3-9, making it adaptable to most North American climates. This hardy perennial handles both cold winters and hot summers with ease. Shop at Nature Hills for reliable zone-tested plants.

Should you deadhead Creeping Phlox?

Yes, deadheading Creeping Phlox after the initial spring bloom encourages a second flowering later in the season. Simply remove the faded flowers once the April-May bloom period ends. This quick maintenance doubles your nectar source for pollinators and hummingbirds throughout the growing season.

How do you care for it after flowering?

Deadhead faded blooms quickly to encourage a second flush of flowers later in the growing season. This simple maintenance step will reward you with another display of the white and pink striped blooms. Cut back spent flower stems to keep the 6" tall mat tidy and promote healthy foliage.

Can it be divided?

Yes, Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox can be divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and create new plants. Best timing is early spring before blooming or fall after flowering ends. Divide the spreading mat into sections with roots attached, then replant immediately. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy starter plants that establish quickly.

Under $50	$9.99
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$199+	FREE

Candy Stripe Creeping Phlox