With the single exception of the Chilean C. tenella, all 40 Clarkia species are native to western North America, many of them adapted to the dry slopes and seasonally cool valleys where the genus evolved. The flowers resemble small hollyhocks and appear in white, pink, and red, often with darker spotting — cheerful without being aggressive. Plants grow to 2-3 feet in light, sandy soil with good drainage and modest fertility; the key word is modest. Rich, moist soil encourages lush foliage at the expense of flowers.

Seeds are sown directly onto the soil surface — they need light to germinate and resent transplanting. Space them 8-10 inches apart and water only when the soil has dried out. Clarkia performs best where nights stay cool and drainage is sharp; it struggles in heat and humidity and will wind down in high summer temperatures. Its ecological value is specific: certain Clarkia bee species depend on it exclusively, making it more than a pretty cut flower for a pollinator garden. Direct-sow in fall in mild climates or early spring where winters are cold.