Greek for "flame", this old-time favorite actually has a strong, contemporary look very bright and showy. An easy, low-growing annual, native to the sandy soils of Texas, Phlox drummondii takes heat well and covers itself with big clusters of blooms from midsummer to fall. Sow the seed indoors 6 weeks before last frost or outdoors in full sun a month later. Height 12".

Burpee's classic strain includes white, lavender-blue, pink, buff-yellow and bicolors.