A native of Chile and western North America from San Francisco to British Columbia, this annual was named for Captain Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition fame. It thrives in cool weather and does not do well in hot humid conditions. The four petaled cup-shaped flowers resemble those of its cousin, Evening Primrose, and are borne in the axils of the leaves near the top of the stem. The satiny flowers may be white, pink, or lavender and most have conspicuous splashes of color in the centers that are especially attractive. Plants may be tall and need some support but dwarf and trailing varieties are available that are 14” tall or less. Godetia is suitable for mixed containers and an excellent cut flower.
Type: Annual
Bloom: White, pink, or lavender flowers up to two inches across are borne in the axils of the uppermost leaves in summer.
Foliage: Lanceolate, toothed
Size: 8-36” T x 8-24” W
Light: Sun to light shade
Soil: Prefers lean, sandy, well-drained soil but is adaptable; water during droughts
Fertilizer: Rich soil will produce plants with lots of foliage and few flowers.
Care: Pinch to encourage branching; dead head to prolong bloom time
Pests and Diseases: Generally problem free but can be susceptible to stem and root rot
Propagation: Seed (may reseed itself but germination poor in hot climates); resents transplanting.
Companion plants: Agave, succulents; grasses; other annuals
Outstanding Selections: Dwarf varieties of the Satin series
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- ‘Dwarf Gem’
- ‘Tall Upright’
Karen Meyers