Wild Sweet William

As I have mentioned before, I am charmed by old-fashioned, common names for flowers. One of the most enchanting of all is wild sweet William also known as wild blue phlox (phlox divaricata). This species is native to the eastern US. It grows abundantly in my woods and is a showstopper in my backyard. This year it is simply breathtaking, all that blue. It seems to glow just before the sun sets in the evening and on days like today, when a rain is expected. Phlox also has a sweet but quiet aroma that is tantilizing when plants are grouped en masse.

I have some photos from my garden taken this afternoon to share with you. The phlox are reaching their peak.

This flower bed contains shade lovers like hosta, ferns, astilbe, bluebells (which are now fading), and, of course, tons of phlox.

The solarium plays host to the shade garden. Virginia creeper has begun its yearly ascent up the walls. I have always wanted an ivy covered cottage. Each year it becomes closer to my ideal.

Phlox make wonderful cut flowers. They are long lasting and smell heavenly. I love how they look against a white backdrop.

My tray of found jars now plays host to a smattering of phlox. I plan to fill it with whatever is in season each week this year. You will see it many times over with different blooms to add life and color.