Phlox subulata 'Eye Caramba' - Creeping Phlox

Phlox subulata 'Eye Caramba' delivers an improved color palette over its predecessor 'Eye Candy', showcasing medium pink flowers adorned with dramatic deep red eyes that create an eye-catching bicolor display in mid to late spring. This Walters Gardens introduction produces notably larger blooms than typical creeping phlox, with flowers measuring approximately three-quarters of an inch across. The plant forms dense mats of evergreen, needle-like foliage that maintain visual interest throughout all four seasons while reaching just four to six inches tall and spreading vigorously to eighteen to twenty-four inches wide. The fine, awl-shaped leaves resemble pine needles, creating a moss-like texture that remains attractive even when the spectacular spring bloom period concludes. The cultivar transforms into a complete carpet of color during its peak flowering display from April through May, with blooms produced so profusely that they entirely cover the foliage beneath.

This hardy native selection thrives across USDA Zones 2 through 9, demonstrating remarkable cold tolerance and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. The cultivar demands full sun exposure of six or more hours daily and excels in gritty, well-drained soils with neutral pH, reflecting its native heritage on rocky ledges, slopes, and dry, sandy sites across central and eastern North America. Plants tolerate light afternoon shade in regions with intense summer heat but require excellent drainage, as poor drainage represents one of the few conditions that compromise plant health. Once established, 'Eye Caramba' develops impressive drought tolerance and actually prefers slightly lean conditions over excessive moisture. The species naturally handles poor soils admirably, making it ideal for challenging sites where other perennials struggle.

Landscape designers value 'Eye Caramba' for its versatility in multiple garden applications where its spreading habit and brilliant spring color shine. The cultivar excels along border fronts where it softens hard edges, in rock gardens where it weaves between stones, and on slopes and banks where its root system stabilizes soil and prevents erosion. Gardeners achieve particularly dramatic effects when they position plants to spill over retaining walls or cascade down rock faces, creating a waterfall effect during peak bloom. The variety pairs beautifully as an underplanting for spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils, concealing ripening bulb foliage while extending the color display into late spring. 

Maintenance requirements remain refreshingly minimal once plants establish deep root systems during their first season.  The most critical care task involves shearing plants back by approximately half after the main bloom period concludes in early summer, which removes spent flowers, stimulates fresh foliage growth, and encourages denser coverage for the following year. Plants generally resist pest and disease problems, though inadequate drainage or poor air circulation can lead to fungal issues including powdery mildew. Gardeners should water at the base rather than overhead to minimize disease risk.

'Eye Caramba' provides significant ecological value as a native species selection that supports beneficial insects including native bees, butterflies, and moths seeking crucial early spring nectar sources. The abundant flowers deliver essential energy for pollinators emerging from winter dormancy, while the evergreen foliage mat creates protective habitat for small beneficial insects year-round. The cultivar demonstrates deer resistance and salt tolerance, making it suitable for coastal gardens or properties where road salt occurs. What distinguishes 'Eye Caramba' from standard selections includes its enhanced flower color intensity, larger bloom size, and vigorous uniform growth habit—the medium pink petals provide warmer tones than typical cool pinks and purples while the prominent red eye adds dramatic focal interest. These refinements make the cultivar particularly valuable for gardeners seeking maximum color impact while maintaining the species' renowned adaptability and ecological benefits.

Photo Credit: Walters Gardens 

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Phlox subulata 'Eye Caramba' - Creeping Phlox

Phlox subulata - creeping phlox - is an easy to grow versatile ground cover for full sun or light shade. Good drainage is essential; it prefers soils with some sand that is PH neutral. Shear back foliage in the early summer after the first bloom as this will create a nice dense foliage through the summer and the occasional rebloom. Can be divided every 2-3 years in the summer following its bloom period.