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

Clarkia elegans 'Double Violet', also known as C. unguiculata, is a beautiful annual flower beloved by gardeners for its abundant, double blooms and long flowering period. This variety is ideal for flowery borders, mixed flowerbeds, and potted plants, and offers a romantic, classic look thanks to its intense violet, double flowers.

Features of 'Double Violet'

'Double Violet' produces upright stems 40–60 cm tall, abundantly covered in double, deep violet flowers. The foliage is bright green and finely branched, creating a beautiful backdrop for the striking flowers.

The flowers are double and intensely violet, with a silky texture and a romantic appearance. The long flowering period, usually from June to September, makes this Clarkia ideal for gardeners who want a continuous splash of color in their garden.

Growth habit and cultivation

Clarkia elegans 'Double Violet' is an easy-to-grow annual suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. This flower prefers a sunny to partially 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 likes a cool soil for germination, so sowing seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost can ensure an early start.

Benefits of 'Double Violet'

• Double-flowered and striking.
  Gives a full, elegant appearance 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, pots 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. They can be added to salads or desserts as an edible decoration. Furthermore, the sturdy stems and long blooming period make them ideal for bouquets and flower arrangements.

Conclusion

Clarkia elegans (C. unguiculata) 'Double Violet' is a luxurious, double-flowered annual perfect for borders, mixed beds, and potted plants. With its long blooming period, intense violet flowers, and easy cultivation, this variety is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a romantic and striking addition to their garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies, making it both aesthetically and ecologically valuable.