Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Plant of the Week: Farewell to Spring


Well hello, Clarkia! These guys are just the thing for the last exuberant burst of color before the dry days of summer take over. A native wildflower, clarkias of all kinds are found throughout the state. These came from a seed packet when impatience possessed me in February, but I would prefer to find a variety native to the Oakland area next year.

Soil: You really can't go wrong here. Well, perhaps not sand. Mulch, however will make them happy.
Sun: Part sun to full sun (the ones in the photos are in my southern "scorch" zone)
Height: about 1.5' to 2' tall
Plant: by seed in early spring or by seedling around April
Buy it: Browse the varieties that Annie's has. So many to choose from! Larner's also has an impressive selection of seeds.
Good for: that hot spot in your garden. Also helps for filling in the blank spaces in a young garden.

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