Now called Clarkia, this annual wildflower blooms in pretty shades of pink and white.
Clark noticed the flowers growing in alpine meadows in California and the Pacific Northwest and collected the seeds.
These flowers tend to have four petals that open to form a cup-shaped saucer that closes at night.
Credit:Joan Hix Vanderschuit
They can be found in shimmering pinks as well as white, coral, and salmon.
Many varieties also feature intricate petal markings, such as blotches or rims of pale shades.
The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Another plus is that deer generally leave it alone.
The soil needs to be well-drained with an almost neutral or alkaline pH.
These wildflowers work well in rock gardens and other dry areas.
Credit: Lynn Karlin
Especially in windy locations, they might need staking.
Otherwise, the plants tend to flop over, especially taller varieties grown for cut flowers.
On the other hand, planting them in partial shade can help extend their bloom time.
Credit: Julie Maris Semarco
During the germination and seedling stage, they need regular watering.
But they are drought-tolerant once established.
In areas with hot summers and high humidity, it may struggle.
Lightly working a handful of compost into the soil around the plant provides it with the necessary nutrients.
Other than that, no pruning is required.
Chose a sturdy one-gallon pot with large drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting mix.
Like Clarkia in the landscape, they can be planted densely to support each other.
Keep in mind that they need more frequent watering and fertilizer than plants in the landscape.
Because this is an annual plant, repotting is not required.
Poorly draining, wet soils lead to rot.
Possible pests includeaphidsand mites.
How to Propagate Godetia
Clarkia is easy to start from seed.
Water the soil so its evenly moist and distribute the seeds over the soil surface.
Sow seeds directly where you want the plants (they don’t transplant well).
Gently press the seeds into the soil and do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Or,start them indoors6 to 8 weeks beforeyour area’s last frost date.
Use biodegradable pots to avoid disturbing the roots.
Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.
Whether you direct-seed them or start them indoors, keep the seeds evenly moist.
Germination takes 14 to 30 days.
The petals have the texture of crepe paper.
There are different cultivars of this species, with single or double blossoms.
It grows 2 to 3 feet tall.
The name comes from the shape of its flowers, which range from white to shades of pink.
By summer, pansies bloom less and their foliage starts to brown.
That is the time when the bloom of the Clarkia takes over.
Snapdragon
Few gardens should be withoutthe easy charm of snapdragons.
The blooms come in gorgeous colors, including some with beautiful color variations on each flower.
Plus, snapdragons are an outstanding cut flower.
Gather a dozen or more in a small vase and you’ll have one of the prettiest bouquets around.
Stock
Stock offers a wonderfullyspicy, distinctive scent.
Stock is slightly spire-like and comes in a wide range of colors.
It makes a great cut flower, perfuming bouquets as well as the border.
It grows best in full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Yes, it is a popular cut flower with a vase life of seven to ten days.
Expect a vase life of 7 days.
To maximize vase life, cut the flowers when only one bud has opened.
