Columbia phlox

Description

Phlox douglasii, common name tufted phlox or Columbia phlox, is a species of perennial herb belonging to the family Polemoniaceae. In the past it has been mistakenly included within the species Phlox caespitosa. Phlox douglasii can reach a height of about 10 cm. This plant forms shrubs, low mounds or cushions of simple needle-like dark green leaves, 4–8 millimetres (0.16–0.31 in) long. Flowers may be purple, pink, pale lavender or magenta-red, about 1.5 cm across, usually in terminal clusters. They bloom from April to August. Phlox douglasii is native to northwestern United States. This species prefers dry areas, sagebrush scrubs and woodlands, at elevation of 1,500–2,000 metres (4,900–6,600 ft) above sea level.