Phlox 'Backlight'

Phlox paniculata 'Backlight': Summer Glow in White

With pristine white flowers that seem to catch and hold the light, Phlox 'Backlight' adds a cooling brightness to the height of summer. This mildew-resistant paniculata selection features tall, upright stems topped with dense clusters of luminous blooms that glow in the evening garden and draw in pollinators all day long. Blooming from midsummer well into fall, it delivers both elegance and endurance, performing beautifully in sunny borders with minimal fuss.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75–90 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: Pure white
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to early fall
• Foliage: Dark green, mildew-resistant leaves on upright stems
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to light shade
• Soil Requirements: Rich, well-drained soil with consistent moisture

Uses and Benefits: 'Backlight' is perfect for adding clarity and contrast to vibrant summer borders, pollinator gardens, and moonlight-themed plantings. Its crisp white flowers pair beautifully with saturated tones and grass textures, while its upright habit and strong disease resistance make it a dependable performer in both traditional and naturalistic designs. Butterflies and hummingbirds flock to its nectar-rich blooms, ensuring seasonal wildlife interest.

Companion Plants: Pair with the deep violet spires of Salvia 'Caradonna', the warm sunset shades of Echinacea 'Cheyenne Spirit', and the fine-textured, upright blades of Schizachyrium scoparium for a radiant, sun-loving combination that blends brightness, contrast, and movement from midsummer into fall.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. Water regularly to maintain bloom quality, especially during dry spells. Deadhead to extend flowering and cut back in late fall. Divide clumps every few years in spring or fall to maintain vigour and airflow.

History: A modern cultivar bred for improved mildew resistance and pure white flowers, 'Backlight' builds on the strengths of classic garden phlox while meeting the expectations of today’s gardeners. It’s a glowing, low-maintenance addition to any midsummer display.

Final Thoughts: Luminous and long-blooming, Phlox 'Backlight' is the perfect way to illuminate summer borders—clean, classic, and full of life.