Phlox, a popular perennial and annual plant used for ground cover and border decoration, is consumed by rabbits, especially when the plant is young and tender. While Phlox is generally not a preferred primary food source, the presence of rabbits often results in damage to the foliage. This browsing behavior is primarily observed when other, more palatable food options are scarce.
Palatability and Rabbit Preference
A rabbit’s diet is driven by availability and the palatability of plant matter, placing Phlox in a category of being moderately attractive. Species variations play a role in this preference; the upright Phlox paniculata (Garden Phlox) and the low-growing Phlox subulata (Creeping Phlox) are commonly damaged by rabbits. Rabbits are most attracted to the soft, newly emerged shoots in spring, which offer higher moisture content and are easier to chew than mature foliage.
When rabbit populations are high, or when environmental conditions like drought reduce native forage, the consumption of less-preferred plants like Phlox increases. Tender new growth, regardless of the species, is generally the most vulnerable to being nipped off.
Safety Concerns and Toxicity
Phlox is generally considered non-toxic to rabbits and other common household pets. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists Phlox subulata as non-toxic, and this low-risk profile extends to rabbits. Phlox paniculata is also commonly classified as safe.
Any unfamiliar plant matter consumed in large amounts can still lead to mild digestive issues, such as a temporary upset stomach. Phlox offers little nutritional value for rabbits, so while it is not toxic, it is not a beneficial food source either. The main concern with ingestion is the damage to the plant, not a medical emergency for the rabbit.
Strategies for Protecting Phlox
Protecting Phlox requires employing physical and sensory deterrents to make the plants less accessible or appealing. The most reliable method for safeguarding new or small plantings is the use of physical barriers. A low fence made of wire mesh or chicken wire, at least two feet high and secured to the ground, can effectively exclude rabbits from a defined area. For individual plants, a wire cloche or cage can be placed over the top until the plant is established and the foliage is tougher.
Repellents work by targeting a rabbit’s strong sense of smell and taste. Commercial repellents often contain ingredients like putrescent egg solids or capsaicin (hot pepper), which are foul-smelling or bad-tasting to the animals. These must be reapplied frequently, especially after rain or watering, to maintain effectiveness. Companion planting, such as placing strongly scented plants like marigolds or herbs nearby, may also act as a secondary deterrent by masking the scent of the Phlox.