Graceful Clarkia
Clarkia gracilis ssp. tracyi
Care
full sun
Prefers sandy or loamy soils. Does not grow well in clay soils.
2–3ft tall
Mar-May
Friendly
Prized
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Graceful Clarkia in full sun with sandy or loamy soil - this is critical, as it does not tolerate clay soils. Space plants a few feet apart to accommodate their 2- to 3-foot height. Plant in fall or early spring so the plant can establish before the growing season. Avoid amending heavy clay soil; if your garden beds are mostly clay, consider planting in a raised bed or container with appropriate sandy/loamy mix instead.
After Planting
Water weekly during your plant's first summer to establish a strong root system, then taper off as it matures since it thrives in dry places. Expect blooms from March through May. The #1 mistake is overwatering or planting in clay soil - this plant wants lean, well-draining conditions and will struggle or fail in wet, heavy soil. Once established, it should need little supplemental water beyond normal Bay Area rainfall.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Primary nectar source during peak bloom Mar-May
Early spring foraging Mar-May, critical for colony establishment
Fungal pathogen on foliage, potential host plant for rust development
Spring pollen source for reproductive females Mar-May
Spring pollen provisioning for larval development
Spring-early summer nectar foraging
Pollen feeding during peak bloom Mar-May
Pollen collection during blooming season for brood provisioning
+2 more species