Clarkia amoena, Farewell to Spring

Farewell-to-Spring is a showy annual wildflower that making a striking display when in bloom. It grows 1–3 ft tall, either erect or sprawling, with large, 4-petaled, cup-shaped pink flowers. Each flower is highlighted with a splash of bright red. The shade of pink and the red markings can be quite variable, even within one clump of plants. The flowers show up late in the season, just after the grasslands begin to turn golden brown.

Clarkia tolerates a wide range of soil conditions. It has low moisture needs and requires minimal watering once established. Plant in moderate to well-draining soil that remains moist just until flowering starts, then it can be quite dry. It will flourish in part to full sun conditions. Pinch out the central leader to encourage branching and heavy bloom. Will self-sow if conditions are right. It is easily grown from seed and attracts bees and butterflies, making it a favorite plant in native pollinator gardens. Tolerates seaside conditions, deer & drought.