Phlox subulata Atropurpurea

Phlox subulata 'Atropurpurea', is a variety of moss phlox with flower of a deep pink shade enhanced with purple at the centre. This small creeping and evergreen perennial disappears from late spring to early summer under an abundance of star-shaped flowers. It grows rapidly and appreciates well-drained, rather dry soils, even limestone, in full sun or partial shade. When not in bloom, it remains attractive, forming beautiful dark green cushions with fine foliage in borders and on walls.

Phlox subulata, also known as moss phlox, belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. This alpine perennial is native to the central and eastern United States. The 'Atropurpurea' form develops into a compact cushion resembling moss, 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) in height. This plant can spread on the ground over at least 50 cm (20in) in diameter through creeping stems that root when in contact with the soil. The flowering, which is very abundant, occurs from May to June, sometimes as early as April depending on climatic conditions, before the arrival of high temperatures and summer drought. The plant is then covered with thousands of small flowers with 5 petals, 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter. Their colour is a deep pink, with the small purple centre. The foliage, dense and evergreen in winter, consists of tiny linear leaves, resembling larch needles. 

Phlox subulata 'Atropurpurea' is primarily a rock plant. Once well established, it withstands drought quite well. Plant it in groups, along with other pink or white varieties, as well as other perennials or alpines for rock gardens such as Teucrium, aubrietas, thymes, candytuft, Sedum spurium, or even Silene maritima. Its compact growth also allows it to be grown in pots.