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Description
Clarkia Modesta, also known as Elegant Clarkia, is an annual plant that belongs to the Onagraceae family. This plant is native to the western region of North America, particularly in California, where it grows best in dry and rocky areas. It is a popular garden plant because of its beautiful flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Clarkia |
Appearance
The Clarkia Modesta plant grows up to two feet tall and has a narrow, upright form with grey-green leaves. Its flowers grow in clusters and are cup-shaped with four petals, which come in shades of pink, purple, and white. The petals have frilly edges, giving the flowers a delicate appearance. The plant blooms in the summer months, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Clarkia Modesta is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as it is grown in the right conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Clarkia Modesta prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week during the summer months, and reduce watering during the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Clarkia Modesta prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is too heavy, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Clarkia Modesta is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clarkia Modesta is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Clarkia Modesta is native to dry and rocky areas of California and can be found growing in the wild in these regions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clarkia Modesta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Clarkia Modesta can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Clarkia Modesta plant?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the best time to plant Clarkia Modesta?
A: The best time to plant Clarkia Modesta is in the spring, after the last frost has passed.
Q: How long do the flowers of Clarkia Modesta last?
A: The flowers of Clarkia Modesta last for several weeks.
Related Plants
– Clarkia amoena- Clarkia unguiculata- Clarkia speciosa- Clarkia biloba
References
– “Clarkia Modesta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 26 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a541- “Clarkia Modesta.” Wildflower.org. Accessed 26 August 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CLMO2
