Clarkia amoena. (This plant used to be called Godetia amoena, and is sometimes listed simply as Godetia). A native of the Pacific coast from BC southward to the San Francisco Bay area, Farewell to Spring Clarkia grows 15-30cm (6-12") tall, and does best direct sown after last frost. Continue sowing more seeds at two week intervals for a longer blooming period. The flowers are cup-shaped and variably marked in crimson to pink. Do not bury seeds, as they require light to germinate. Clarkia is an extremely easy annual flower to grow, and will perform just as well in patio containers as in the flower border. Don't be surprised if it self sows, but it is not a plant that becomes weedy.
Annual flowers that are confusingly referred to interchangably as Clarkia or Godetia, and even Eucharidium. We believe that Clarkia is correct. Plant Clarkia in cool, moist ,well-drained soil. Avoid nitrogen-rich beds and planting beside nitrogen fixers (beans, peas, clover, lupins…). Flowering will be reduced in hot weather. While plants are still small, intersperse your Clarkia bed with twiggy branches to provide support as they grow. Tall plants will need staking. Crowding Clarkia plants may increase flower production. Clarkia may self-sow. Follow along with this handy How to Grow Clarkia from seed Guide and grow some colour in your garden this spring.!
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun
Direct sow outdoors after last frost – mid-March on the coast, and twice again at two week intervals for a nice, long bloom period. Clarkia is so susceptible to damping off that sowing indoors is not practical. If absolutely necessary, sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost in peat pots topped with vermiculite under very bright light, with good ventilation at 12-21°C (55-70°), watering only from below.
Sow on the surface of the soil, as the seeds need light to germinate. Thin to 15-23cm (6-9″) apart.