Clarkia williamsonii (Fort Miller Clarkia)

Endemic to California, Clarkia williamsonii (Fort Miller Clarkia) is an upright annual boasting ravishing clusters of cup-shaped, slightly flaring flowers from late spring to mid-summer. The flowers are formed of 4 overlapping petals colored white around the base, lavender higher up, with a darker purple blotch near the upper edge. Borne on erect, lightly hairy stems lined with linear to lance-shaped leaves, 2.5 in. long (6 cm), they give way to dry capsules, which split open when mature to release their numerous seeds. Attractive to bees and butterflies, Fort Miller Clarkia may reseed in the garden in optimum growing conditions. Easy to grow, and low maintenance, Fort Miller Clarkia is suitable for beds and borders, wildflower gardens, and pollinator gardens.

• Grows up to 12-36 in. tall (30-90 cm) and 10-12 in. wide (25-30 cm). May reseed in the garden in optimum growing conditions.
• Thrives in full sun or part shade in poor to moderately fertile, slightly acid, moist but well-drained soil. Appreciates good air circulation. Performs poorly in hot and humid summer weather. Drought tolerant.
• Great for beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, or containers.
• Cut back after flowering.
• Generally pest free. Keep an eye out for foot rot and stem rot. Deer resistant.
• Propagate by seed sown in-situ in early spring or autumn. Start seed indoors in pots 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or sow directly in the garden as soon as the danger of frost has passed. 
• Native to California.