Phlox triovulata is very conspicuous by virtue of the striking pattern of the flower. The innermost area is a five pointed deep purple star, surrounded by a sunburst pattern of white. The largest portion of the petals is pink purple. The stems and leaves are hairy gray-green but not glandular (as in Phlox nana). Phlox triovulata is found at middle elevation on dry, gravelly hillsides.