SafePlants

Clarkia amoena: Farewell to Spring

Clarkia amoena, commonly known as Farewell to Spring or Godetia (syn. Godetia amoena), is a charming flowering plant that graces gardens and landscapes with its delicate beauty.

Considerations for Pets

• Clarkia amoena is described as a slender plant.
• Often self-sows, which could lead to widespread growth in garden areas.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Clarkia amoena (Lehm.) A. Nelson &amp J.F. Macbr.
• Synonyms: Godetia amoena
• Common Names: Farewell to Spring, Godetia
• Family: Onagraceae (evening-primrose family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America.
• Found in coastal hills and mountains, and specifically mentioned as native to the San Francisco Bay area up the coast through British Columbia.
• Also grows in the western Sierra foothills.

Morphological Characteristics

• Slender annual, growing up to 75cm (approximately 2 feet) tall.
• Simple, lance-shaped leaves.
• Showy, funnel-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers in lax racemes, blooming in summer.
• Flowers are typically lilac or pink, sometimes with white centers.
• Flowers range in size from 1 to 2 inches.
• Forms clusters of azalea-shaped flowers in shades of pink through dark red
• Can be erect or sprawling.

Ecological Role

• Native to California and has spread into British Columbia.
• Hardy annual that often self-sows.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The flowers are attractive to bees.

Quirky Facts

• The genus name "Clarkia" was given in recognition of Captain William Clark of the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1806.

Further Information

• USDA Plant Fact Sheet available.
• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• CalPhotos provides images of Clarkia amoena.