Clarkia

Family: Onagraceae
Common Name: Satin Flower

Native to western North America, these colorful annuals make very attractive cut flowers, but the leaves should be removed as they have an unpleasant odor when they are placed in water.

Species

C. amoena, the most commonly cultivated species, is a pretty annual with lance-shaped, mid-green, alternate leaves. The flowers are borne either singly or in sprays. Numerous strains in mixed colors are offered in the UK, the colors including shades of red, pink, orange, scarlet and purple. Heights vary from 45 to 75 cm (18-30 in). They flower in late spring if sown in fall and produce flowers in summer from spring sowings.

Cultivation

Clarkia thrives in a light soil in a sunny position. Sow seeds in fall or early spring where they are to grow, as they do not transplant easily, and thin to about 30-40 cm (12-16 in) apart when they reach 5-8 cm (2-3 in) high.

Climate

Zone 8.