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Clarkia unguiculata
Elegant Clarkia
Clarkia unguiculata
Clarkia unguiculata, commonly known as Elegant Clarkia, is an annual flowering plant native to California. It is prized for its showy, cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. It's a relatively easy-to-grow wildflower that adds a touch of elegance to gardens and meadows.
CategoryDetails
Duration to maturity2 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan1 month lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: animal

Notes: Bees and other insects are the primary pollinators. Manual pollination can increase seed production.

Watering Requirements

Method: top water

Frequency: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Notes: Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: low

Care InstructionsDeadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
Temperature Range

Min: 10°C

Max: 27°C

Alternative NamesClarkia elegans
Eschscholzia californica
California poppy
Eschscholzia californica
California Poppies share similar growing conditions and attract pollinators, creating a vibrant and beneficial ecosystem.
Lupinus succulentus
arroyo lupine
Lupinus succulentus
Lupines fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting Clarkia unguiculata by improving soil fertility.
Poa annua
Annual Meadow-grass
Poa annua

Annual bluegrass can quickly overtake an area, competing with Clarkia unguiculata for resources like sunlight and nutrients, inhibiting its growth.

Stellaria media
common chickweed
Stellaria media

Chickweed can form dense mats that smother Clarkia unguiculata seedlings, preventing them from establishing properly.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted growth, yellowing leaves, and honeydew production on Clarkia unguiculata. They cluster on new growth and under leaves.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that create fine webs on plants and suck sap from leaves, causing stippling, yellowing, and eventual leaf drop on Clarkia unguiculata, especially in hot, dry conditions.

Steps:

    • Collect seeds from dried flower pods in the fall.
    • Sow seeds directly into the garden in early spring or late fall.
    • Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun.
    • Lightly cover seeds with soil and keep moist until germination.

Neem Oil

Effective against aphids and spider mites on Clarkia unguiculata.

Diatomaceous Earth

Can be used as a barrier to prevent slugs and snails from reaching the plants.