This is a wonderful hardy annual from the central California coast ranges and foot hills. Its closely allied to our native Clarkia amoena var lindleyi and though a bit taller the most conspicuous difference is the base of large pink cup shaped flowers are stained in bright red. Thats where it gets its descriptive common name of Claret Cup Farewell to spring. To 32″ tall if forms a candelabra of 2″ flowers that point upwards. The bright red on the base of the petals act as a nectary guide, think of this as landing lights for pollinators. Blooms June to August and it makes a large plant. The flowers spikes make long lasting cut flowers. LOVED by carpenter bees who will cut circles out of the petals to line their nests. So cute. Re seeds in open disturbed sites or even better a gravel mulch. Mix with all other native hardy annuals. Great long blooming container plant. No supplemental irrigation required. Very long blooming. Seeds germinate in early autumn and overwinter as tiny plants.
