If you want a flower that’s easy to care for and brings bright color to your garden, try growing godetia. Often called “farewell to spring,” this lovely annual wildflower blooms at the start of summer in pink, white, coral, and salmon shades.
Godetia flowers are part of the Clarkia genus, named after William Clark from the Lewis and Clark Expedition. He found these flowers in the alpine meadows of California and the Pacific Northwest. (Townsend, 2009) Gardeners still love godetia for their delicate, cup-shaped petals and for attracting butterflies. This guide will show you how to plant, grow, and care for godetia in your garden.
Planting Your Godetia
Successfully growing godetia begins with selecting the correct location and planting it at the optimal time. These flowers are relatively easy to care for once established, but a good start is essential.
Where to Plant
Godetia grows best in places with plenty of sunlight but some protection from strong afternoon heat. Choose a spot with well-drained soil. Since these wildflowers come from coastal mountains, they do well in rocky, neutral, or slightly alkaline soils. (Winecup Clarkia (Clarkia Purpurea) Plant Care & How to Grow, Water, 2025) They work well in rock gardens and other dry spots in your yard.
In windy locations, taller varieties of godetia might need staking to prevent them from flopping over. A simple alternative is to plant them closer together or alongside other sturdy plants that can offer mutual support. However, be mindful that dense planting can reduce air circulation, which might encourage fungal diseases in humid or wet conditions. (DuPont et al., 2023)
How and When to Plant
It can be hard to find potted godetia at nurseries, so it’s usually best to grow them from seed. (Parsons, 2017) Sow the seeds outside once the temperature stays above 70°F.
You can also start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before your last expected frost. Use biodegradable pots because Godetia has sensitive roots and doesn’t transplant well. This way, you can plant the whole pot in the ground without upsetting the roots. (Godetia – Scarlet, n.d.)
When you plant seedlings, space them 12 to 18 inches apart. You can plant them a little closer for support, but don’t crowd them, as that can slow their growth.
Godetia Care Guide
After planting, godetia needs little care to thrive. Use these easy tips to enjoy lots of blooms all season long.
Light
Godetia grows best in full sun. They can handle some shade, which might help them bloom longer, but too much shade can make them tall and floppy.
Soil and Water
Godetia prefers well-drained soil. During germination and while the seedlings are young, they require regular watering to stay moist. Once the plants are established, they become quite drought-tolerant. (Williamson’s Clarkia (Clarkia williamsonii) | Easyscape Plant Profile, n.d.) Be careful not to overwater, as wet soil can lead to root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
These flowers are native to regions with moderately warm and dry summers, and they perform best in similar climates. (Clarkia amoena (Satin Flower), n.d.) In areas with very hot summers and high humidity, godetia may struggle to thrive.
Fertilizer
Godetia doesn’t need much fertilizer. Just mix a little compost into the soil when you plant, and that should be enough for the season. (Dwarf Godetia, Clarkia Seeds, n.d.)
Pruning and Maintenance
To make your godetia bushier, pinch off the center tips when the plant is 6 to 8 inches tall. (Parsons, 2017) You don’t need to do much more pruning. Remove faded flowers quickly to stop the plant from dropping seeds. (Parsons, 2025)
Growing in Pots
You can grow godetia in pots. Since they don’t like being moved, sow seeds right in the pot you plan to use. Pick a one-gallon pot with big drainage holes and use well-draining soil. You can plant them close together for support. Just remember, potted plants need more frequent watering and feeding than those in the ground. (Godetia grandiflora). Growing godetia, n.d.)
Common Pests and Problems
Godetia is usually tough, but it can have some problems. Powdery mildew may show up in humid weather or if the air can’t move around the plants. Watch out for aphids and mites, too. The biggest problem is root rot, which happens if the soil stays too wet. (Floriculture and Ornamental Nurseries, 2025)
How to Propagate Godetia
Godetia is propagated from seed. If Godetia grows from seed. If planting outside, water the soil first so it’s evenly moist. Spread the seeds on top and press them in gently. Don’t cover them with soil, since they need light to sprout. (How to Grow Clarkia (Godetia) from Seed: An Easy Annual Flower for Beginners, 2025) able pots to minimize root disturbance when transplanting. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before planting them in the garden. Whether you start them indoors or out, keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically takes 14 to 30 days. (Clarkia purpurea-Winecup Clarkia – Klamath Siskiyou Native Seeds, n.d.)
Your Garden’s Farewell to Spring
Godetia is a great pick if you want a pretty, easy-to-grow annual. Its delicate, crepe-paper flowers and love of sunny, dry spots will add color to your garden as spring turns to summer. Follow these simple steps to enjoy a beautiful show of these classic wildflowers.
Ready to get started? Look for different godetia seed varieties online and decide where you’ll plant these lovely flowers in your yard.
