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Description
Clarkia Lewisii, also known as Lewis’ clarkia or pinkfairies, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is native to California and Oregon in the United States, where it grows in dry meadows, slopes, and open woods. This plant produces beautiful pink, red, or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Myrtales || Family| Onagraceae || Genus| Clarkia|| Species| Lewisii|
Appearance
Clarkia Lewisii typically grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It has slender stems and lance-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers of this plant are 1-2 inches wide and have four petals with crinkled edges, giving them a ruffled appearance. The petals are usually pink, but can also be red, purple, or white. The flowers bloom in clusters at the top of the stems, creating a beautiful display.
Care Guide
Clarkia Lewisii is quite easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:- Water: This plant prefers moderate watering, so make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. – Fertilization: Fertilize your Clarkia Lewisii with a balanced fertilizer once every month during the growing season.- Soil: This plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.- Sunlight: Clarkia Lewisii prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clarkia Lewisii is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, or rust. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Clarkia Lewisii is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry meadows, slopes, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clarkia Lewisii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Clarkia Lewisii can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are kept moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Clarkia Lewisii?
A: Fertilize your Clarkia Lewisii once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Clarkia Lewisii a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Clarkia Lewisii produces beautiful flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Does Clarkia Lewisii require pruning?
A: No, Clarkia Lewisii does not require pruning. Simply remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems as necessary.
Related Plants
– Clarkia Amoena- Clarkia Pulchella- Clarkia Unguiculata- Clarkia Bottae- Clarkia Rhomboidea
References
– “Clarkia lewisii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CLLE2- “Clarkia lewisii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286015&isprofile=0&- “Growing Clarkia.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-clarkia-1315901
