Local early spring flowers include Phlox. Phlox longifolia is a native Nevada wildflower which can be found growing in the high desert as well as the High Sierra.. One of over sixty species, this low growing ground cover adorns itself with an eye catching splash of springtime color. The small flowers come in several colors, including bright red, pure white, sky blue, hot pink and lavender. There are even variegated varieties. If you mix them in mass, this time of year will bring abundant color to your garden.

The plants are basically care free. Give them full sun and well drained soil and they will return year after year. In late spring, after the blooms have faded, you can cut back the foliage. This will promote a thicker patch of green for the summer. At this time, too, you can divide the plants for a wider distribution.

A good choice for xeric landscaping, Phlox does very well in rock gardens and on south facing slopes. This plant also attracts butterflies and honeybees.