Ruby Clarkia is a jewel-toned annual flower that brings rich color to spring and summer gardens with minimal fuss. This cultivar of Clarkia elegans grows to a compact 12-18 inches tall and reaches full bloom in just 70-84 days from seed, making it a gratifying choice for gardeners who want fast results. Hardy in zones 7-10, it thrives in full sun with moderate water and attracts pollinators throughout its long blooming season from March through August.
Full Sun
Moderate
7-10
18in H x 12in W
—
High
Hover over chart points for details
Ruby Clarkia produces vibrant flowers on a neat, bushy plant that requires remarkably little care once established. The seedlings are sensitive to disturbance during transplanting, so direct sowing in early spring or fall (in warm zones) often yields the strongest plants. Once past the seedling stage, it becomes a low-maintenance performer that needs just an inch of water per week and tolerates drier conditions beautifully as it matures.
Ruby Clarkia is grown as an ornamental flower for garden beds and borders, valued for its long blooming season and pollinator-friendly flowers.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors in pots 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost date. Keep the soil temperature between 55-70°F. Cover seeds lightly with vermiculite and expect germination in 5-21 days. Handle seedlings with care during thinning and transplanting, as they are sensitive to root disturbance.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost has passed. Harden off seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days before planting in the garden.
Direct sowing is recommended and often produces stronger plants. In zones 7-10, sow seeds directly in early spring 3-4 weeks before your last frost date. In warm winter areas (zones 8-10), you can also direct sow in fall. Cover seeds lightly with vermiculite.
Enter your ZIP code to see a personalized growing calendar for this plant.