Grape Lollipop™ Phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Ditomsur'

First Editions®

Deep Purple Blooms with White Brushstrokes and Orange Halos Attract Hummingbirds All Summer
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-8
Grows 2 ft Tall and Wide
Showy Purple Blooms From Late Summer to Early Fall
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees and Butterflies

$35⁰²

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Plant Size

#1 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flower production and the most vibrant purple color. While it handles partial shade, you may see fewer blooms and increased risk of powdery mildew if air circulation is poor.
Soil: This phlox thrives in rich, organic soil that drains well but stays moist. If you have heavy clay, mix in some compost to improve drainage, or use a raised bed to keep the roots from sitting in water.

Watering Requirements

Keep the soil consistently moist for the first growing season to help the root system expand. Once established, Grape Lollipop™ is relatively drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering during high heat can lead to smaller flower clusters and scorched leaf edges. Aim for deep soakings at the base of the plant rather than frequent light sprinkles.

Pruning Tips

This variety blooms on new wood, so you should cut the stems back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Deadheading, or removing spent flower heads in midsummer, encourages a second flush of blooms later in the season. Think of it like a haircut that stimulates the plant to put its energy into fresh flowers instead of seed production.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring as soon as you see new green shoots emerging. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this promotes soft, tender growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost. A single application of a general purpose 10-10-10 formula is usually sufficient for the entire season.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

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, Fragrant, Disease resistant, Attracts pollinators, Attracts Butterflies, Heat Tolerant, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	2 ft
Width	2 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Peaty
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Compact, Upright
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Fall, Summer
Flower Color	Purple
Foliage Color	Green
Fragrant	Yes
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name	Phlox
Botanical Name	Phlox paniculata 'Ditomsur'
Species	paniculata
Cultivar	Ditomsur
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Juicy summer vibes, Bring the summer vibes on by planting this popping First Editions® Grape Lollipop™ Phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Ditomsur' PP21,109) in your garden! These summer blooms will illuminate your garden endlessly!

The big clusters of deep purple blossoms with darker eyes and lighter petal centers. The vibrant saturated purple coloration with a dramatic accent of white brushstrokes and at the center have an orange halo that draws you in! These flowers are held up proudly by their deep dark green foliage.

You will be joined by butterflies and other beneficial pollinators and Hummingbirds who can't get enough! You won't be able to miss this illuminating flowering perennial! Hardy throughout USDA growing zones 3 to 8 and are gloriously cold-hardy and heat tolerant. Tall Garden Phlox are perfect for the busy or the beginner gardener alike!

Planting and Application:

You can also plant your Grape Lollipop™ Phlox in mass planting for a drastic array of summer colors! Possibly the world's most perfect edging plant, consider running a light-hearted ribbon of color to polish up your foundation plantings and garden borders. Plant them 12 inches apart on center.

You will want to have this small space plant as close to your porch or patio as possible to be able to absorb its summer beauty! These beautiful, hardy plants are well-branched and compact with an upright growth habit. They will tolerate urban conditions quite nicely without fuss or muss. Even if you don't have a yard, then your container gardens will still have plenty of room to let these darling perennials shine!

Planting the Grape Lollipop™ Phlox as a border around your garden or to line the walkway to your front door is ideal. Its summer fragrance will leave an enchanting path for all your family and friends to enjoy! Others will enjoy these blooms too, so include Phlox in the Butterfly Garden or Cut Flower Garden! Mix and match with several of our incredible perennials in an easy-breezy mixed garden.

Vibrant Purple Blooms with White Brushstrokes & Orange Halos
Deep, Dark, Green Foliage
Adored by Butterflies & Beneficial Pollinators
Fits Beautifully in Small Space Gardens & Containers
Gorgeous Scented Cut Flowers
Illuminating in Mass Planting, & Back-Of-The-Border Focal Points!

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Phlox needs full sun for the most blooms and strongest stems. Please give these perennials at least six hours of sun a day. Well-drained, enriched soil that doesn't stay soggy for long is also important. Elevate your planting in heavy soil types by planting in a mounded heap of extra soil, or raised bed. Apply water on a regular schedule for best performance. Container-grown plants need careful watering, including a long soak in fall. Add a three-inch layer of mulch over the root system. Please pull it back to avoid having it touch the stems.

You will want to plant in well-drained soil with full sun for the best growth possible of about 22 inches tall and 24 inches wide. This easy-care perennial is incredibly disease-resistant, especially from the harmful powdery mildew! Nothing can harm this plant's magnificent coloration and health!

Deadhead as soon as the blooms fade, and you may enjoy a second flush of blossoms. Easy care Phlox can be pruned to the ground in late fall. Or, if you don't get a chance to get it done, you can do it in late winter too! Divide your mounds every 3-5 years while they are dormant to increase the root system's vigor.

Colorful, Carefree Choice in Full Sun
Well-Drained Enriched Soil
Moderate Yet Consistent Moisture Needs
Appreciates Mulched Beds
Prune Late Fall/Winter
Very Cold Hardy, Excellent Disease & Incredibly Mildew Resistant

Order your very own First Editions® Grape Lollipop™ Tall Garden Phlox today at Nature Hills Nursery! The dramatic purple blooms will make you want more so you can fill your home and garden in these incredible blossoms!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Grape Lollipop™ Phlox suitable for?

Grape Lollipop™ Phlox thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, making it both cold-hardy and heat tolerant. This wide range means it performs well across most of the continental United States. Plant in spring after your last frost date for best establishment.

How tall and wide will Grape Lollipop™ Phlox grow at maturity?

Grape Lollipop™ Phlox reaches 12-18 inches tall and spreads 10-12 inches wide at maturity. These compact, well-branched perennials work perfectly for borders and containers in zones 3-8. Plant them 12 inches apart for best results, available at naturehills.com.

Does this phlox variety require full sun, partial shade, or can it tolerate different light conditions?

Grape Lollipop™ Phlox thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This hardy perennial performs best with at least 6 hours of morning sun daily. For optimal blooming and disease resistance, choose a location with good air circulation and avoid dense shade.

Is Grape Lollipop™ Phlox deer resistant and will rabbits avoid eating it?

Phlox paniculata varieties like Grape Lollipop™ are generally deer resistant due to their strong fragrance, though hungry deer may occasionally browse them. Rabbits typically avoid mature phlox plants but may nibble young shoots in spring. Plant them closer to high-traffic areas near patios where deer are less likely to venture.

How should I prepare the planting site and what spacing is recommended between plants?

Plant Grape Lollipop™ Phlox 12 inches apart on center in well-draining soil with full to partial sun. Choose a location close to patios or walkways where you can enjoy the summer fragrance. Shop at Nature Hills for this compact perennial that thrives in zones 3-8.

Grape Lollipop™ Phlox

Phlox paniculata 'Ditomsur'