Botanical Name: Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Pink’

Common Name: Creeping Phlox, Moss Phlox

Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 3–9)

Size: 4–6" Tall × 18–24" Spread

Growth Habit: Low-Growing, Mat-Forming, Spreading Habit

Sunlight: Full Sun (Best Flowering); Tolerates Light Shade

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Sandy or Rocky Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Early to Mid-Spring

Fertilizer: Minimal; Light Feeding in Early Spring if Needed

Features: Bright Rose-Pink Flowers, Evergreen Needle-Like Foliage, Excellent Erosion Control, Deer Resistant

Uses: Ideal for Ground Cover, Slopes, Rock Gardens, Edging, and Cascading Over Walls

Patent: ❌ Not Patented

Propagation: ✔ Propagation Allowed

More About Creeping Phlox ‘Emerald Pink’

Creeping Phlox ‘Emerald Pink’ is one of the most popular moss phlox selections, known for its vivid rose-pink blooms that blanket the plant in early spring. At peak bloom, the flowers form a dense carpet of color, creating a dramatic seasonal display that signals the start of the gardening year.

After flowering, the plant transitions into a neat mat of evergreen, needle-like foliage that provides year-round structure and weed suppression. Its low, spreading habit makes it especially useful in areas where coverage and erosion control are needed.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Emerald Pink’ has proven to be extremely reliable in full sun and well-drained soils. It establishes quickly, spreads evenly, and requires very little maintenance once settled in.

We especially appreciate how versatile it is in the landscape. It performs beautifully on slopes, along walkways, in rock gardens, and spilling over retaining walls. Deer typically avoid it, and it pairs effortlessly with spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils for layered seasonal interest.

Emerald Pink vs. Other Creeping Phlox

Emerald Pink offers a warmer, bolder presence than its counterpart, Emerald Blue. Pink brings a gentle blush tone that feels inviting and romantic in the landscape, while Emerald Blue leans cooler and more calming with its crisp, tranquil color. Where Emerald Pink adds warmth and charm to mixed plantings, Emerald Blue provides balance and cohesion, making it the better choice for gardeners aiming for a cool, serene spring palette.

Compared to Amazing Grace, Emerald Pink adds warmth without sacrificing the clean, polished look the Emerald Series is known for. Emerald Pink is the strongest choice when subtle color and uniform coverage are the priority. Next to Spring® Scarlet, Emerald Pink avoids intensity in favor of a welcoming, garden-friendly tone. For gardeners looking for dependable spring color with a softer, romantic feel, Emerald Pink is the clear choice.