Night Phlox (Zaluzianskya capensis)

Night Phlox

Zaluzianskya capensis

Its night-blooming scent is sweet as vanilla, a tiny star of evening gardens. Low-growing flowering annual.

Full sun
2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; needs at least 6 hours of direct daily sun for abundant blooming; avoid extreme midday sun in hot climates
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in standing water
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Temperature Thrives in cool to temperate conditions; protect from frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, lance-shaped, gray-green, fuzzy texture
  • Flower: Star-shaped white blooms that open at dusk; pale pink reverse petals
  • Stem: Slender, branching, slightly hairy
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; water when the top 1 cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization once blooming slows in late autumn

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season
  • Trim leggy stems mid-season to maintain a compact, mounding shape
  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover, container plant for evening fragrance, pollinator attractant for nocturnal insects