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

Clarkia elegans 'Double White', 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 perfect for flowery borders, mixed flowerbeds, and potted plants, and offers a romantic, classic look thanks to its bright white, double flowers.

Features of 'Double White'

'Double White' produces upright stems 40–60 cm tall, abundantly covered in double-flowered white blooms. The foliage is bright green and finely branched, beautifully showcasing the striking flowers.

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

Growth habit and cultivation

Clarkia elegans 'Double White' 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 pre-sow in pots; cover seeds with a thin layer of soil

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

Sowing seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost can encourage early flowering, as Clarkia prefers cool soil for germination.

Benefits of 'Double White'

• Double-flowered and elegant.
  Gives a full, stylish appearance to borders and pots.

• Long-lasting flowering
  Flowering period from June to September, ideal for continuous colour in the garden.

• Easy to grow.
  Minimal care required, suitable for beginning gardeners.

• 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

Clarkia elegans is primarily used for ornamental purposes, but the flowers are safe and edible. They can be added to salads or desserts as an edible decoration. Furthermore, the sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make them excellent for bouquets and flower arrangements.

Conclusion

Clarkia elegans (C. unguiculata) 'Double White' is a luxurious, double-flowered annual perfect for borders, mixed flowerbeds, and containers. Its long blooming period, bright white flowers, and ease of cultivation make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a romantic and elegant addition to their garden. It also attracts bees and butterflies, making it both aesthetically and ecologically valuable.