Elegant Clarkia 1000 Seeds, Clarkia elegans
From spring to fall, this stunning variety bursts with vibrant pink flowers. This annual wildflower is perfect for flower beds, borders, containers, rock gardens, and native plantings.
The genus name of this plant, "Clarkia," was named in honor of Captain William Clark from the famous Lewis & Clark Expedition. Another traditional name for this flower, Godetia, pays tribute to a Swiss botanist named Charles H. Godet (1797-1879). In its natural habitat, this beautiful flower is found only in California, thriving in woodland regions.
Common Names: Elegant Clarkia, Garland Flower, Mountain Garland, Farewell-to-spring
Latin Name: Clarkia elegans
Species Origin: Native Wildflower from the US
Type: Native Wildflowers
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
Seeds per Ounce: 120,000
Stratification: No Stratification Needed
Germination Ease: No Stratification Required
Sunlight: Prefers Full Sun
Height: Reaches 20 Inches
Color: Pink
Bloom Season: Flowers Late Spring and Early Summer
Uses: Great for Cut Flowers
Sowing: In early spring, after the last frost, directly sow Elegant Clarkia flower seeds on the soil's surface. Keep the soil moist until germination, which should occur within 7-10 days. This plant doesn't handle transplanting well; however, seedlings can be thinned out, as they can manage some crowding.
Growing: The plant thrives in well-drained soil and can adapt to seaside conditions, sand, and clay. Make sure to keep seedlings weed-free; water them regularly until blooming starts, which is about 90 days after planting. Once blooming begins, the plants can handle drought, but they don't like excessive heat. Pinch off the growing tips to promote branching and a bushier appearance. Remember to deadhead the spent flowers. As the plants grow taller, they might require staking or some support. This plant typically self-seeds. It’s a great addition to flower beds, borders, containers, rock gardens, and native wildflower plantings. Plus, it attracts bees and butterflies.
Harvesting: To enjoy long-lasting fresh flowers, cut the stems long and put them in water right away.
Seed Saving: After flowering, this plant will create long, narrow pods that turn dark brown when mature; the ripe seeds will be light brown. Gather the ripe pods and lay them out away from direct sunlight to dry thoroughly. Open the pods to extract the seeds. Store Elegant Clarkia flower seeds in a cool, dry location.