Phlox paniculata 'Monte Cristallo'

This cultivar forms upright, compact, and bushy clumps. As an herbaceous perennial, it typically reaches a height of 100 - 130 cm (39-51 inches) and spreads about 50 - 60 cm (20-24 inches) wide. It's known for its good stability.

Deciduous, the leaves are broadly lance-shaped, dark green, and form dense, attractive foliage along the stems.

The flowers of 'Monte Cristallo' appear in large, dense, conical panicles at the tips of the shoots. They are pure white, sometimes with a slight pink tint, especially when opening or in cooler weather. The flowers emit a pleasant fragrance and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators from July to September.

Prefers full sun to light partial shade. A sunny location is ideal for abundant flowering. Good air circulation around the plants is crucial to reduce susceptibility to powdery mildew. Avoid sheltered, warm, and humid corners.

Very good frost hardiness (down to below -28°C / -18°F, USDA Zones 4-8). It reliably overwinters outdoors.

Thrives best in fresh to moist, nutrient-rich, and well-drained garden soils. The soil should be rich in humus and never completely dry out. Waterlogging, especially in winter, must be strictly avoided, as it can lead to root rot.

Ideal for perennial beds, cottage gardens, cutting gardens, and as an elegant group planting in larger borders. Its height and color make it an excellent background plant or a focal point in the middle of a bed.

Medium to high water requirement. The soil should be kept consistently moist throughout the growing season, especially during dry spells and the blooming period. A layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture.

Relatively low maintenance. Regular deadheading of spent flowers promotes a longer and richer rebloom and prevents unwanted self-seeding. In late autumn or early spring before new growth emerges, the plant can be cut back to the ground. To prevent powdery mildew, besides proper site selection (good ventilation), watering directly at the base of the plant (not over the leaves) is helpful. Dividing clumps every few years in spring can help maintain the plant's vitality and flowering vigor.

Containerized plants can be planted year-round, as long as the ground is not frozen. The optimal planting times, however, are spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) to allow the plant the best establishment.