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Description
Clarkia Mildrediae is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Onagraceae. It is commonly known as Mildred’s clarkia and is native to California. This annual plant is a wildflower that has bright pink petals with a yellow center. It blooms from late spring to early summer and is a popular choice among gardeners due to its attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Clarkia |
Appearance
Clarkia Mildrediae has a distinctive appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has slender stems with narrow leaves. Its flowers are bright pink with a yellow center, and each petal has a fringed edge. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stem and bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant is an annual, which means it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Care Guide
Clarkia Mildrediae is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy and beautiful Mildred’s clarkia:
Water
Clarkia Mildrediae prefers moist soil, so make sure to water the plant regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Feed your Clarkia Mildrediae with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This will help promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Soil
Mildred’s clarkia grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
Clarkia Mildrediae prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Clarkia Mildrediae is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clarkia Mildrediae is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:
Pests
– Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
Diseases
– Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew.- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure to water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Clarkia Mildrediae is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soils and areas with full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Clarkia Mildrediae in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Mildred’s clarkia in a container. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Clarkia Mildrediae?
A: Feed your Mildred’s clarkia with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Is Clarkia Mildrediae a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Clarkia Mildrediae is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How long does Clarkia Mildrediae bloom?
A: Clarkia Mildrediae blooms from late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
– Clarkia amoena (farewell to spring)- Clarkia concinna (San Francisco clarkia)- Clarkia rubicunda (ruby chalice clarkia)
References
– “Clarkia Mildrediae.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/clarkia-mildrediae.- “Clarkia Mildrediae.” Pacific Horticulture Society, www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/clarkia-mildrediae/.- “Clarkia Mildrediae.” San Francisco Botanical Garden, www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/garden/bloom_10_14.shtml.
