Clarkia elegans (C. unguiculata) 'Double Rose' – Elegant, Double-flowered Annual

Clarkia elegans 'Double Rose', also known as C. unguiculata, is a beautiful annual flower beloved by gardeners for its abundant, double blooms and long-lasting blooms. This variety is ideal for flowery borders, mixed flowerbeds, and potted plants, and creates a romantic, classic look thanks to its pink to soft pink, double flowers.

Features of 'Double Rose'

'Double Rose' produces upright, elegant stems 40–60 cm tall, abundantly covered with double, rose-colored flowers. The foliage is bright green and finely branched, providing a beautiful backdrop for the striking flowers.

The flowers are double and soft pink, with a delicate, almost silky texture. The long flowering period, usually from June to September, makes this Clarkia ideal for gardeners who want color and continuity in their borders.

Growth habit and cultivation

Clarkia elegans 'Double Rose' is an easy-to-grow annual suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. This flower prefers a sunny to lightly shaded location and well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Optimal growing conditions:

• Location: full sun to partial shade

• Soil: airy, humus-rich and well-drained

• Water: regularly, especially during dry periods; do not keep too wet

• Sowing method: directly in the garden or grow in pots; cover seeds with a thin layer of soil

• Planting distance: 20–30 cm between plants for optimal air circulation

Clarkia prefers cooler soil for germination, so sowing seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost can ensure an early start.

Benefits of 'Double Rose'

• Double-flowered and striking.
  Gives a full, romantic look to borders and pots.

• Long-lasting flowering
  Flowering period from June to September, ideal for continuous use of colour.

• Easy to grow
  Perfect for beginner gardeners, with minimal care required.

• Versatile in garden design
  Suitable for borders, rock gardens, mixed flower beds, potted plants and cutting gardens.

• Nutritious for pollinators.
  Attracts bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.

Culinary and decorative applications

Although Clarkia elegans is primarily used for ornamental purposes, the flowers are safe and edible and can be added to salads or used as an edible decoration on desserts. The flowers are also excellent for bouquets and flower arrangements, thanks to their sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms.

Conclusion

Clarkia elegans (C. unguiculata) 'Double Rose' is a luxurious, double-flowered annual perfect for borders, mixed beds, and potted plants. Its long blooming period, attractive rose-colored flowers, and ease of cultivation make this variety an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a romantic and colorful addition to their garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies, making it both aesthetically and ecologically valuable.