FLOWER OF THE WEEK AT SOPCHOPPY DEPOT PARK

Woodland phlox

By LYNN ARTZ, DAVID RODDENBERRY, and SANDY TEDDER

Woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata) is a low-growing perennial wildflower with loose clusters of large tubular flowers in pastel colors from bluish purple to pinkish lilac. The weak stems flop over and shoots rise up from the stem. Fertile shoots die back after producing flowers and seed capsules. Infertile shoots stay green all growing season. Long-tongued bees (especially bumblebees), butterflies (especially swallowtails), skippers, and moths pollinate the flowers. Only they can reach the nectar at the end of the flower tube. Cross pollination is necessary for seed production. Woodland phlox prefers filtered sunlight and moist, humus-rich soil. Also called wild blue phlox, it grows on deciduous forest floors in eastern North America. Four Florida panhandle counties are the southern end of its range. Woodland phlox is blooming now at Sopchoppy Dept Park.