Creeping Phlox

About this plant

Phlox subulata 'Emerald Blue', commonly known as Creeping Phlox, is a truly spectacular perennial groundcover renowned for its prolific spring bloom. From mid-spring to early summer, its dense, needle-like foliage becomes almost entirely obscured by a breathtaking display of small, star-shaped, periwinkle-blue flowers. This cultivar is a fast-growing, evergreen perennial that forms a lush, mat-like spread. It's an excellent choice for a variety of landscape applications, including rock gardens, slopes, pathways, and as an edger. Its tough nature makes it ideal for areas where other plants might struggle. Beyond its dazzling spring show, 'Emerald Blue' offers year-round attractive, moss-like foliage, providing continuous texture and color. It's a low-water, low-maintenance plant once established, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced gardeners seeking vibrant curb appeal.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires well-drained soil. Shear back lightly after flowering to encourage dense growth and potential rebloom. Fertilize sparingly in early spring with a balanced slow-release formula. Divide overcrowded clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigor. Generally pest and disease resistant.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.