Contents
Description
Clarkia Williamsonii, also known as Williamson’s clarkia, is a beautiful wildflower that is native to California. It belongs to the Onagraceae family and is an annual plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. The flowers have four petals and come in shades of pink, purple, and red. They bloom from late spring to early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Clarkia |
Appearance
Clarkia Williamsonii has thin, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 5 inches long. The flowers are cup-shaped and have four petals that are 1-2 inches long. The petals are often deeply notched and have a crinkled appearance. The flowers are held on thin stems that sway in the breeze. They are delicate and beautiful, and their colors range from pink to purple to red.
Care Guide
Clarkia Williamsonii is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It needs to be watered regularly, but not too much, as it does not like to be overwatered. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. It needs full sun to grow well, but it can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clarkia Williamsonii is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Clarkia Williamsonii is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Clarkia Williamsonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Clarkia Williamsonii can be grown in containers as long as the container is big enough to accommodate its roots and it is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Clarkia Williamsonii?
A: Clarkia Williamsonii should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Clarkia Williamsonii a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Clarkia Williamsonii is an annual plant.
Q: Can Clarkia Williamsonii be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Clarkia Williamsonii can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Clarkia Amoena
- Clarkia Pulchella
- Clarkia Unguiculata
References
- “Clarkia Williamsonii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 5 January 2022. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CLWI
- “Clarkia Williamsonii.” California Native Plant Society. Accessed 5 January 2022. https://www.cnps.org/guide/clarkia-williamsonii
- “Clarkia Williamsonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 January 2022. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280825&isprofile=0&basic=clarkia%20williamsonii
