White Flower Farm
Phlox paniculata 'Laura'
Best low-maintenance perennial for gardeners seeking vibrant, pollinator-friendly late-summer color.
Phlox paniculata 'Laura' is a stunning Garden Phlox cultivar celebrated for its mildew resistance and prolific blooming. This upright perennial showcases huge clusters of rich royal purple flowers, each accented with a crisp white eye, providing weeks of vibrant color in the late summer garden. It's a resilient and low-maintenance choice, thriving even in challenging clay soils and offering drought tolerance once established. Beyond its visual appeal, 'Laura' attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, and its subtle fragrance adds a delightful sensory dimension to any landscape.
$19.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
29
/ 2989
#29 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-31%
Below average
SKU
36064
/ S
Who it's for
- Pollinator enthusiasts and florists needing reliable, long-lasting cut flowers
- Gardeners seeking a bold, vibrant focal point for summer borders
- Fragrance lovers wanting healthier plants with less disease pressure
Who should skip it
- Beginners preferring plants that do not require periodic root division
- Busy homeowners looking for low-maintenance, hands-off garden perennials
- Gardeners in humid climates without ideal airflow for plant health
Performance breakdown
Disease Resistance
Superior mildew resistance keeps foliage pristine throughout the humid summer months.
Pollinator Appeal
A reliable magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds in any garden.
Environmental Adaptability
Thrives in heavy clay soils where other perennials often struggle.
Bloom Longevity
Provides a consistent, vibrant color show well into the late season.
Maintenance Requirements
Low-effort perennial that establishes quickly with minimal ongoing intervention.
Sensory Impact
Sweet fragrance adds a subtle, pleasant dimension to outdoor living spaces.
Key Specs
SKU
S36064
Mature Height
3 feet
Spacing
18 inches
Plant Type
Perennial Flower
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
USDA Hardiness Zones
4-9
Water Requirement
Moderate
Soil Type Preference
Clay
Features
- Mildew-resistant for healthier plants
- Produces large clusters of purple and white blooms
- Excellent late-season color
- Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Fragrant flowers with a sweet perfume
- Resilient and reliable bloomer
What customers say
Customers consistently celebrate the exceptional quality and robust health of the 'Laura' Phlox upon arrival from White Flower Farm. Reviewers frequently note the plant's impressive vigor, leading to reliable, abundant blooming even in the first season. The striking, deep purple pink color and strong, upright habit are major aesthetic draws, making it a standout feature in garden beds. While the initial price point is higher, the plant's long term performance and ease of establishment justify the investment, confirming its status as a premium garden staple.
Know before you buy
Phlox paniculata 'Laura' is specifically bred for improved mildew resistance. While no plant is entirely immune, this cultivar is significantly less prone to the unsightly powdery mildew that often plagues older Phlox varieties.
Yes, 'Laura' is exceptionally resilient and is known to thrive in clay soils where other perennials might struggle. Ensure the planting site has adequate drainage to prevent water from pooling around the roots.
For the best performance and most prolific flowering, plant 'Laura' in a location that receives full sun. While it can tolerate partial shade, you will see the most vibrant color and strongest stems with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight.
Once established, 'Laura' is quite drought-tolerant. You should provide moderate, consistent moisture during its first growing season, but it will become much more self-sufficient as its root system matures.
Space your plants 18 inches apart. This spacing allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for maintaining the plant's health and preventing fungal issues.
Absolutely. The fragrant, nectar-rich blooms are a magnet for beneficial pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for a wildlife-friendly landscape.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$19