Ragged Lady

clarkia pulchella

Also known as: ["Farewell-to-spring","Rose-gill"]

Family: Onagraceae Genus: Clarkia Category: Flowers

Overview

A delicate annual wildflower native to western North America, known for its vibrant pink to rose-purple flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Onagraceae
Genus: Clarkia
Botanical Name: Clarkia pulchella

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, airy space
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • 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 to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a soil mix with good structure; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); prefers cooler nights.

Use a thermometer to monitor conditions; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed sowing.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F/21–24°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to support growth.

Checklist

Choose a new pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the soil surface is dry to the touch; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or damage to tender tissues; increases susceptibility to disease.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, and potential heat shock.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Clarkia pulchella may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Clarkia pulchella is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Clarkia pulchella may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Clarkia pulchella due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Clarkia pulchella is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary when cats are exposed to Clarkia pulchella.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Clarkia pulchella is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary when dogs are exposed to Clarkia pulchella.
Humans
Non-toxic

Clarkia pulchella is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No special precautions are necessary when handling or growing Clarkia pulchella.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How tall does Clarkia pulchella grow?

A: It typically reaches 1 to 3 feet in height.

Q: Does it require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Is it drought-tolerant?

A: It has moderate drought tolerance once established.

Quick Reference
Family: Onagraceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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