Elegant Clarkia
clarkia unguiculata
Also known as: ["Elegant Godetia","Fringed Godetia"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to western North America, known for its vibrant, fringed blossoms in shades of pink, rose, and white.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Clarkia |
| Botanical Name: | Clarkia unguiculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; primarily deadheading and occasional shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for better texture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); thrives in mild climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; keep away from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; use a balanced NPK ratio.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; seeds are the most common method for Clarkia unguiculata.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss blend.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds shallowly; use bottom heat for faster germination; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node or lateral bud.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead or spent flowers; use clean tools; snip carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger if repotting is necessary.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers; repot if roots are crowded or soil is depleted.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors before temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicClarkia unguiculata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of poisoning in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicClarkia unguiculata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicClarkia unguiculata is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is commonly used in ornamental gardens and does not pose a significant risk of poisoning.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Clarkia unguiculata grow?
A: It typically reaches heights of 2 to 3 feet (60–90 cm).
Q: Does Clarkia unguiculata require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Clarkia unguiculata suitable for cutting flowers?
A: Yes, its long stems and vibrant blooms make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
