Moss phlox and creeping phlox are two terms that are often used interchangeably to refer to the same plant life , Phlox subulata . However , there are some elusive dispute between the two terms .

1 . Common Names : Moss Phlox vs. Creeping Phlox – Moss Phlox : Moss phlox is a uncouth name that is often used to describe Phlox subulata . This name is deduct from the plant ’s low - growing and mat - forming use , which give it a moss - like appearing . – Creeping Phlox : Creeping phlox is another usual name for Phlox subulata . This name emphasizes the plant ’s grovel growth habit , as it distribute along the soil .

2 . Growth Habit : – Moss Phlox : Moss phlox has a prostrate or creep maturation drug abuse , with stems that distribute out horizontally along the basis . It forge a dense mat of leaf , which can provide first-class basis cover in sunny areas . – Creeping Phlox : Creeping phlox also has a low - acquire and spreading use , similar to moss phlox . It forms a thick carpet of foliage , which can assist hold in grime erosion on incline or fill in space between other plants in a garden .

3 . Flowering : – Moss Phlox : Moss phlox produces an abundance of small , star - shape flowers in various colors , include shades of pinkish , violet , white , and puritanical . The heyday typically bloom in spring and create a stunning display when the works is in full bloom of youth . – Creeping Phlox : sneak phlox also produce interchangeable small , colourful blossom that cross the plant in a carpet - similar fashion . The flowers usually appear in early spring and continue to bloom for several calendar week , attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies .

4 . ethnical Requirements : – Moss Phlox : Moss phlox is well - adapted to dry out , rocky , and gay locations , bring in it an excellent choice for xeriscapes or stone gardens . It prefers well - drained soil and can tolerate drouth weather once established . – Creeping Phlox : Creeping phlox is also well - suited for sunny spots and can flourish in various soil type , including flaxen or loamy soils . It is comparatively humble - maintenance and can tolerate dry stipulation , constitute it suitable for rock music gardens , incline , or as a earth cover in gay areas .

5 . Varieties and Availability : – Moss Phlox : Moss phlox is available in several cultivar , each with its unique blossom people of color and habit . Some pop cultivar admit ‘ Emerald Blue , ’ ‘ Candy Stripe , ’ and ‘ Snowflake . ’ These cultivars propose a range of flower colors and pattern to choose from . – Creeping Phlox : Creeping phlox is also available in legion cultivars , offer a wide array of blossom colors , including pink , regal , crimson , and blanched . Some popular cultivars let in ‘ Scarlet Flame , ’ ‘ Drummond ’s Pink , ’ and ‘ White Delight . ’ These cultivars cater options for different color preferences and garden designs .

While moss phlox and cringe phlox are often used interchangeably , they refer to the same plant species , Phlox subulata . The terms highlight different aspects of the plant ’s growth habit and appearance . Moss phlox emphasizes the moss - like coming into court of the low - growing lustrelessness - form plant , while creeping phlox emphasizes its spreading habit . Both variety offer beautiful and colorful flowers , making them a great pick for sunny locating , such as xeriscapes , slope , or rock and roll garden .

Caroline Bates