Contents
Description
Clarkella is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae, native to North America. It is a small genus with only two known species: Clarkella brachycarpa and Clarkella grandiflora. These plants are typically found in rocky areas and are known for their showy yellow flowers. Clarkella is a great addition to any garden, and in this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to care for these beautiful plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Clarkella |
Appearance
Clarkella plants are small and compact, growing up to 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide. They have a basal rosette of leaves that are green and lance-shaped. The leaves are 1-3 inches long and have a toothed margin. The showy, bright yellow flowers are 1 inch in diameter and bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are held on a tall stem above the basal rosette of leaves. Clarkella plants are perfect for adding a pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Clarkella plants are easy to care for and can thrive in most conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Clarkella plants:
- Water: Clarkella plants prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be overly wet. Water your plants deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Clarkella plants once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Clarkella plants prefer well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. They do not like heavy clay soils.
- Sunlight: Clarkella plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause them to become leggy and not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Clarkella plants are hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clarkella plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to clubroot, a fungal disease that causes stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To prevent clubroot, make sure to plant Clarkella in well-draining soil and rotate your crops every few years.
Habitat
Clarkella plants are native to North America and can be found in rocky areas and open woods. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Clarkella plants are well-suited for rock gardens and other dry, rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clarkella plants tolerate drought?
A: Clarkella plants can tolerate some drought, but they prefer to be watered regularly.
Q: Do Clarkella plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Clarkella plants are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Clarkella plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Clarkella plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and are watered regularly.
Q: When is the best time to prune Clarkella plants?
A: Prune Clarkella plants after they have finished blooming in early summer.
Related Plants
- Brassica nigra
- Brassica rapa
- Brassica oleracea
References
- “Clarkella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c236.
- “Clarkella.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/192933/Clarkella-brachycarpa/.
- “Clarkella.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 19 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clarkella.
