Heirloom Flowers
Mountain Garland Clarkia
(Clarkia elegans)
Native to California, Mountain Garland Clarkia is one of my favorite American wildflowers. The multiple flower stems are covered with ruffled ribbons of small blossoms shaped like tiny informal roses. Fluffy 2- to 3-foot-tall wands of color fill the late spring garden in soft shades of coral, salmon, rose-pink, lilac and white. Beautifully adapted to home gardens, the abundant graceful blooms are perfect for informal bouquets. Monet would have loved them in his gardens at Giverny!
HARDY ANNUAL
Summer/Fall bloom
Can handle light frost
EASIEST TO START DIRECTLY IN THE GARDEN
As early in spring as ground can be worked, sow seeds 1 inch apart into a finely textured garden bed in full sun. In climates where the ground doesn’t freeze, sow seed in late fall for bloom the following spring. Cover very lightly, about 1/8 inch deep and keep soil moist as seedlings emerge. Weed and water carefully and thin before they get too crowded.
TO START EARLY INDOORS
Start seed indoors 4 weeks before last spring frost date. Sow seeds an inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly, keep evenly moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outdoors. Plant in the garden when seedlings are large enough to handle. Thin or transplant seedlings 6 inches apart.
GROWING NOTES
Clarkia grows well in a wide range of conditions, but if you are in a very hot, humid climate, planting in a spot with afternoon shade will extend flowering. These carefree wildflowers thrive in well-drained soil. Plant in mixed borders or anywhere you want an informal effect of vibrant color and armfuls of entrancing flowers to bring indoors.
Cold Winters |
Mild Winters |
Sun/Shade |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
March - May
|
October - April
|
Sun/part shade
|
1 inch apart
1/8 inch deep |
7 - 14 days
|
2½ - 3 feet
|
Cold Winters |
Mild Winters |
Sun/Shade |
Space Seeds |
Days to Germinate |
Mature Height |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
March - May
|
October - April
|
Sun/part shade
|
1 inch apart
1/8 inch deep |
7 - 14 days
|
2½ - 3 feet
|
Cold Winters
March - May
|
Mild Winters
October - April
|
Sun/Shade
Sun/part shade
|
Space Seeds
1 inch apart
1/8 inch deep |
Days to Germinate
7 - 14 days
|
Mature Height
2½ - 3 feet
|