cleft phlox

Phlox bifida is a mat-forming subshrub growing up to 15–30 centimetres (6–12 in) tall in patches of short stems. The stems occasionally branch and are covered with short hairs. Leaves along the stem are opposite, linear, and short, measuring about 5 centimetres (2 in) long. The flowers are pale purple and have 5 lobes, each with a V-shaped notch at the end.

Phlox bifida is native to the Midwestern United States, the Ozarks, and the cedar glades of Kentucky and Tennessee. The plant can be found in dry woods, on slopes, and on bluff ledges. It typically grows in dry, rocky soils.

The flowers bloom in the early spring, and a variety of butterflies and moths feed on the nectar.

== References ==

The genus name Phlox comes from the old Greek word for "flame," referencing flowers that were flame colored. The specific epithet bifada is Latin for "twice-cut", which describes the notched petals.