Clarkia unguiculata aka Clarkia

Taxonomy

Clarkia unguiculata, also known as elegant clarkia or mountain garland, is an endemic wildflower species found in California. It can be commonly found in woodland habitats, particularly on the forest floor of oak woodlands. This spindly plant has a hairless, waxy stem that reaches a maximum height of one meter and bears occasional narrow leaves. The showy flowers have hairy, fused sepals that form a cup beneath the corolla, with four petals measuring up to 2.5 centimeters in length. The paddle-like petals come in shades of pink, reddish, or purple, and are slender and diamond-shaped or triangular. With eight long stamens, four of which have large red anthers, the flower also features a protruding stigma. Clarkia flowers primarily rely on specialist bees for pollination, as they have independently developed self-pollination in multiple lineages. In addition, Clarkia can also refer to a tall, upright annual plant that can grow up to one meter in height. This plant produces loose spires of pale pink flowers over an extended period during the summer season. As for Clarkia as a houseplant, it is considered super rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned less than one foot away from a window. Well-draining soil is ideal for Clarkia houseplants.

Common names

Clarkia, Elegant Clarkia, Rose Clarkia

How to care for Clarkia

Water

Clarkia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Clarkia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Clarkia requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Clarkia will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Clarkia’s native range is South-western N. America - California.


More info:
Wikipedia