Emerald Pink Moss Phlox

Overview

• Botanical name: Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Pink’ – a cultivar of moss or creeping phlox. 

• Common name: Emerald Pink Moss Phlox

• Habit: Low‑growing (“moss”) form; forms a spreading mat of foliage and star‑shaped blooms. 

• Typical height/spread: Height around ~4‑6 inches (10‑15 cm) and spreads up to 12‑24 inches (30‑60 cm) depending on cultivar. 

• Hardiness: Suited to USDA Zones 3–9 (many sources list Zone 3 minimum) for the species P. subulata. 

• Key features: Dense mats of needle‑like foliage, brilliant spring bloom “carpeting” effect, good for rock gardens, slopes, edges. 

Light & Site Requirements

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun for best flowering and density. Some light shade is tolerated, but too little sun will reduce bloom. 

• Soil: Needs very well‑drained soil. Tolerates sandy, rocky or lean soils, but dislikes persistently wet or soggy conditions. 

• Moisture: Moderate watering while establishing; once matured, has good drought tolerance in well‑drained sites. 

• Usage: Excellent for rock gardens, slopes, front of borders, edging, mass plantings for spring impact. 

Planting & Maintenance

• Plant in spring or early autumn when soil is workable.

• Space plants roughly 12‑18 inches apart so they can fill in to form a dense mat. (Spacing may vary by cultivar) 

• After bloom, you may lightly trim the foliage edge to keep a tidy shape and encourage denser growth. 

• Avoid heavy fertilization or overly rich soil; this plant thrives in leanish, well‑drained conditions.

• Remove dead or woody stems as needed; older growth may become less floriferous over time and may need division or rejuvenation. 

Cold‑Climate / Zone 3 Considerations

• Because this cultivar (and the species) is hardy to Zone 3, it is suitable for northern climates including Saskatoon/Saskatchewan, provided you choose an ideal site.

• Key for success: full sun, excellent drainage (especially important in winter/spring melt), avoid low‑lying areas where water collects around the crown.

• On slopes or raised beds are ideal for spring drainage.

• In very exposed winter sites, minimal mulch may help, but avoid heavy mulch that keeps the crown overly moist.

Photo from gardenia.net