Clarkia amoena
Clarkia amoena (Lehm.) A.Nelson & J.F.Macbr.
Clarkia amoena is a beloved California native annual that blooms in a final flourish of silky pink and lavender cups just as spring grasses turn gold. Its name and beauty make it a poignant symbol of joyful farewells, fleeting beauty, and the passage of seasons.
Onagraceae (Evening primrose family)
May to August (late spring to midsummer)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: clarkias and tropaeolum majuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The common name "Farewell to Spring" captures the flower's place in the California seasonal calendar: it blooms precisely as the lush green of spring turns to summer gold, marking the transition between seasons in one last burst of color. The genus name honors Captain William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, commemorating his role in documenting the flora of the American West. The species name amoena means "pleasant" or "charming" in Latin, a fitting description for one of California's most beloved wildflowers. It has been cultivated in English gardens for well over a century under the name Godetia.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to light shade
Water
Drought tolerant once established; prefers dry to moderate moisture; avoid overwatering which causes leggy growth and reduces flowering
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Low to moderate fertility, pH 6.0–7.5
Expert Growing Tips
Direct sow seed in fall in mild-winter climates, or in early spring in colder regions
Scatter seeds lightly on the soil surface as they need light to germinate; do not bury
Thin seedlings to 8–10 inches apart for best flowering; do not transplant as it dislikes root disturbance
Avoid fertilizing with nitrogen-rich amendments as this encourages foliage at the expense of flowers
Seeds of indigenous Californians sowed Clarkia species and gathered the seeds to grind for food
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower meadow and prairie seed mixes
- Cottage and cutting gardens
- California native and water-wise gardens
- Pollinator and bee gardens
- Cut flower arrangements (long vase life)
Traditional Uses
- Seeds were gathered and ground into flour by indigenous Californians and used as a food staple
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Clarkia amoena
Why is Clarkia amoena called Farewell to Spring?
The name refers to the plant's blooming season: it flowers just as spring ends and the California grasslands turn from green to summer gold, offering a final, vibrant flourish before the dry season arrives.
What does Clarkia amoena symbolize?
Farewell to Spring symbolizes fleeting beauty, joyful farewells, and the sweetness of seasonal transitions. It is a reminder to appreciate the present moment before it passes.
Is Clarkia amoena the same as Godetia?
Yes. Clarkia amoena was formerly classified in the genus Godetia and is still widely sold under that name in commercial seed mixes, particularly in Britain where it has been cultivated for more than a century.
How do you grow Clarkia amoena from seed?
Scatter seeds on the surface of well-drained soil in fall (mild climates) or early spring. Do not cover the seeds as they need light to germinate, and avoid transplanting since the plant dislikes root disturbance. Thin seedlings to about 8 inches apart.
Is Clarkia amoena a perennial?
No, it is an annual. It completes its full life cycle in one growing season. However, it self-seeds readily in suitable conditions, so established plantings often naturalize and return year after year.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Clarkia
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Tropaeolum Majus
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Tropaeolum majus is a fast-growing, entirely edible annual from South America, beloved worldwide for its bold, spurred blooms in warm shades of red, orange, and yellow, and its round, parasol-like leaves. It symbolizes victory, conquest, and patriotism, and is equally at home in the vegetable patch, the flower border, and on the dinner plate.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum × morifolium (and other spp.)
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are popular fall flowers with diverse forms and colors. They symbolize joy, optimism, longevity, and are culturally significant worldwide.