As soon as temperatures begin to rise at the start of summer, godetia flowers come into their peak, living up to the plant’s nickname of farewell to spring. This plant has been reclassified into the genus Clarkia, named after William Clark, leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the early 1800s. Clark noticed the flowers growing in alpine meadows in California and the Pacific Northwest and collected the seeds.
Depending on the species, the papery flowers of Clarkia emerge in clusters on the tips of stems or along the length at each node. These flowers tend to have four petals that open to form a cup-shaped saucer that closes at night. They can be found in shimmering pinks as well as white, coral, and salmon. Many varieties also feature intricate petal markings, such as blotches or rims of pale shades.
The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators. Another plus is that deer generally leave it alone.
Godetia Overview
Where to Plant Godetia
Pick a location where the plant gets ample sun but some protection during the hot afternoon hours. The soil needs to be well-drained with an almost neutral or alkaline pH.
These wildflowers work well in rock gardens and other dry areas. Especially in windy locations, they might need staking. An alternative is to plant them close together or with other plants so they can lean on each other for support.
Keep in mind though that planting them densely means less air circulation, which can result in the rapid spread of fungal disease, especially in wet and humid conditions.
How and When to Plant Godetia
Potted plants are not commonly available in the nursery trade but you can start them from seed, either directly outdoors when temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees, or indoors six to eight weeks before your last average frost date (see below for details).
The seedlings can be planted densely but they should not be overcrowding each other so much that their growth is stifled. Aim for 12 to 18 inches of space between mature plants, or a little less if you don’t plan on staking them.
Godetia Care Tips
Light
Although Clarkia tolerates a bit of shade, it performs best in full sun. Otherwise, the plants tend to flop over, especially taller varieties grown for cut flowers. On the other hand, planting them in partial shade can help extend their bloom time.
Soil and Water
Because these wildflowers are native to coastal mountains that typically have rocky soils, they prefer well-drained soil.
During the germination and seedling stage, they need regular watering. But they are drought-tolerant once established.
Temperature and Humidity
Summers in the native habitat of Clarkia are moderately warm and dry and that’s the climate in which the plant thrives. In areas with hot summers and high humidity, it may struggle.
Fertilizer
Being a wildflower, Clarkia does not have the same fertilizer needs as other annual flowers, which are usually heavy feeders. Lightly working a handful of compost into the soil around the plant provides it with the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
To encourage more compact growth, pinch out the growing tips in the center of the plant when it has reached a height of 6 to 8 inches. Other than that, no pruning is required. However, if you want to prevent the plant from reseeding itself, deadhead the flower as soon as flowering is finished.
Potting and Repotting Godetia
Clarkia can be grown in a container but you should start it from seed in its permanent container, as the plant does not transplant well. Chose a sturdy one-gallon pot with large drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting mix. Like Clarkia in the landscape, they can be planted densely to support each other. Keep in mind that they need more frequent watering and fertilizer than plants in the landscape.
Because this is an annual plant, repotting is not required.
Pests and Problems
A common fungal disease that affects Clarkia is powdery mildew, especially in humid weather or with poor air circulation. Poorly draining, wet soils lead to rot. Possible pests include aphids and mites.
How to Propagate Godetia
Clarkia is easy to start from seed. Water the soil so it’s evenly moist and distribute the seeds over the soil surface. Sow seeds directly where you want the plants (they don't transplant well). Gently press the seeds into the soil and do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Or, start them indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your area's last frost date. Use biodegradable pots to avoid disturbing the roots. Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors.
Whether you direct-seed them or start them indoors, keep the seeds evenly moist. Germination takes 14 to 30 days.
Types of Godetia
Farewell to Spring
Clarkia amoena, also called satin flower, has cup-shaped flowers in red, pink, or lavender. The petals have the texture of crepe paper. There are different cultivars of this species, with single or double blossoms.
Elegant Clarkia
Clarkia unguiculata, also known as mountain garland, has tall stems with compact blossoms in pink, purple, white, or salmon. It grows 2 to 3 feet tall.
Deerhorn Clarkia
Clarkia pulchella, also known as pinkfairies, is a lesser-known species but no less attractive. The name comes from the shape of its flowers, which range from white to shades of pink.
Godetia Companion Plants
Pansy
From tiny, cheerful Johnny jump-ups to the stunning 3-inch blooms of Majestic Giant pansies, the genus Viola has a spectacular array of delightful plants for the spring garden. They're must-haves to celebrate the first days of spring since they don't mind cold weather and can even take a little snow and ice! They're pretty planted in masses in the ground, but also cherished for the early color they bring to pots, window boxes, and other containers. By summer, pansies bloom less and their foliage starts to brown. That is the time when the bloom of the Clarkia takes over.
Snapdragon
Few gardens should be without the easy charm of snapdragons. They get their name from the fact that you can gently squeeze the sides of the intricately shaped flower and see the jaws of a dragon head snap closed. The blooms come in gorgeous colors, including some with beautiful color variations on each flower. Plus, snapdragons are an outstanding cut flower. Gather a dozen or more in a small vase and you'll have one of the prettiest bouquets around. Snapdragons are especially useful because they're a cool-season annual, coming into their own in early spring when the summer-blooming annuals, such as marigolds, impatiens, and Clarkia, are just being planted.
Stock
Stock offers a wonderfully spicy, distinctive scent. Plant it in spring several weeks before your region's last frost date—this annual thrives in cool temperatures and stops blooming once hot weather arrives. It's especially wonderful in window boxes and planters at nose level, where its sometimes subtle effect can best be appreciated. Stock is slightly spire-like and comes in a wide range of colors. It makes a great cut flower, perfuming bouquets as well as the border. It grows best in full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Clarkia a perennial?No, it’s an annual wildflower so it won’t come back after the winter but it tends to reseed itself so there is a good chance you will find Clarkia seedlings next year.
No, it’s an annual wildflower so it won’t come back after the winter but it tends to reseed itself so there is a good chance you will find Clarkia seedlings next year.
- Is Clarkia a good cut flower?Yes, it is a popular cut flower with a vase life of seven to ten days. While individual blossoms on a stem last only a few days, more buds continue to open, especially if you add cut flower food to the water used. Expect a vase life of 7 days. To maximize vase life, cut the flowers when only one bud has opened.
Yes, it is a popular cut flower with a vase life of seven to ten days. While individual blossoms on a stem last only a few days, more buds continue to open, especially if you add cut flower food to the water used. Expect a vase life of 7 days. To maximize vase life, cut the flowers when only one bud has opened.