Graceful Clarkia

Clarkia gracilis ssp. tracyi

perennial herbView on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Soil

Prefers sandy or loamy soils. Does not grow well in clay soils.

Size

2–3ft tall

Bloom

Mar-May

Container

Friendly

Flowers

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.

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Wildlife Supported