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University of Missouri

MU Weed Science

Creeping Phlox

Phlox subulata

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Alternate names
Moss Pink

Weed Description
A prostrate perennial with attractive flowers. Moss pink is commonly planted as an ornamental ground cover and only rarely escapes to become a weed in certain situations.

Leaves
Arranged oppositely along the stem, linear in outline, usually hairy.

Stems
Usually creeping prostrate along the ground, hairy, often reddish in color.

Flowers
Consist of 5 notched petals, usually pink to rose in color but several ornamental varieties exist so it is not uncommon to see plants with white, red, pink, or purple flowers.

Trouble identifying a weed?

For additional assistance identifying weeds, contact Dr. Kevin Braldly, State Extension Weed Scientist (bradleyke@missouri.edu).

Affiliates

MU Extension
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CAFNR
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Plant Science & Technology
The division is the sole academic program in the state to address issues related to plant production, plant protection and plant biology from the laboratory to the field.

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Published by Division of Plant Science & Technology, 52 Agriculture Lab, Columbia, MO 65211