annualN. America Native

Punch Bowl Clarkia

Clarkia bottae 'Punch Bowl'

The Story

Plant Bio

Clarkia bottae, commonly known as Punch Bowl, is an annual plant native to western North America. It is recognized for its charming pink flowers and fern-like foliage.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its vibrant blooms and ability to attract pollinators, making it a great choice for gardens aiming to support wildlife.

Uses & Benefits:

Clarkia bottae Punch Bowl adds vibrant pink hues to wildflower gardens, attracting pollinators and providing visual appeal.

Its drought-tolerant nature makes it suitable for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.

Supports native pollinators and contributes to biodiversity in natural settings.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Western North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, after last frost.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods for optimal growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds directly into the garden for best natural growth and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 💧
Prune dead or damaged stems promptly ❌
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture 🌱
Use organic compost to enrich soil
Monitor regularly for pests and diseases

Don't

Overwater, leading to root rot ❌
Allow soil to become compacted
Neglect deadheading flowers
Use chemical pesticides without caution
Plant in poorly drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Harvest
Pinch
Plant
Propagate

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful wildflower meadowVivid border plant in cottage gardensOrnamental accent in naturalistic landscapes

Companion Plants

California poppy Lupine Indian paintbrush Blue flax Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Punch Bowl Clarkia questions

What zones can Punch Bowl Clarkia grow in?

Punch Bowl Clarkia is hardy in USDA Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Punch Bowl Clarkia deer resistant?

Yes — Punch Bowl Clarkia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Punch Bowl Clarkia bloom?

Punch Bowl Clarkia typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Punch Bowl Clarkia need full sun?

Punch Bowl Clarkia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Punch Bowl Clarkia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Punch Bowl Clarkia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.