Zaluzianskya ovata
night phlox
- 9cm pot
- £8.99
- available to order from spring
- 3 × 9cm pots
- £19.99 £6.66 each
- available to order from spring
- 6 × 9cm pots
- £36.99 £6.17 each
- available to order from spring
Delivery options
- Standard £5.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: June to August
- Hardiness: frost hardy (may need winter protection)
This captivating alpine perennial, native to southern Africa, unfurls its fragrant, whirligig-like blooms from red buds during sunny summer days. Growing up to 25cm (10in) tall, its sticky, toothed leaves frame the 2.5cm (1in) wide flowers, each adorned with crimson-red backs and notched petal tips that emit a sweet perfume in the evenings. Highly prized for its fragrance, Zaluzianskya ovata is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in pots on patios, filling the air with its delightful scent all summer long.
Plant in a sunny or lightly sheltered spot with well-drained soil, enriched with compost. Space plants about 20-25cm (8-10in) apart to allow airflow and reduce disease risk. Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser to encourage flowering. Pinching back young shoots can help produce bushier plants and more blooms. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering and remove any yellowing or damaged foliage.
In cooler parts of the UK, protect from frost with a cloche, horticultural fleece, or grow in pots that can be moved under cover for winter, as it is sensitive to modest and hard frost.
In cooler parts of the UK, protect from frost with a cloche, horticultural fleece, or grow in pots that can be moved under cover for winter, as it is sensitive to modest and hard frost.