Until now variegated foliage in Phlox was limited to cream edges, the best known varieties being P. ‘Darwin’s Joyce’, P. ‘Frosted Elegance’ and P. ‘Harlequin’. Variegated varieties of Phlox are generally weaker growers than those with entirely green leaves, but P. ‘Goldmine’ none the less has a good sturdy composition and performs well.

  Phlox 'Frosted Elegance' and Phlox 'Harlequin'.

Back in the days when Phlox variegation was limited to cream.

Phlox ‘Goldmine’ is a Paniculata type that began life as a mutation of P. ‘Bright Eyes’ at René van Gaalen’s nursery. He found the original mutation in 1994 and developed it by further crossings and growing on a particular patch of ground which appeared to have caused the original mutation. After 4 years crossing work the first P. ‘Goldmine’ was created in 1998, and was introduced in 2001. The first plants were sold exclusively through Thompson & Morgan’s UK mail order catalogue, and the variety became available for the first time in stores in the UK and USA the following year.

Phlox 'Bright Eyes' The plant from which P. 'Goldmine' was derived.

Today P. ‘Goldmine’ is used both as a cut-flower and a garden plant. It’s foliage adds an extra dimension to mixed bouquets and provides long-lasting interest in the perennial border.