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Red Spot Clarkia

Clarkia speciosa

Last reviewed: July 2026

Red Spot Clarkia (Clarkia speciosa)
Photo: (c) Ken-ichi Ueda, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ken-ichi Ueda

Red Spot Clarkia (Clarkia speciosa) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Clarkia speciosa, known as farewell-to-spring, produces showy cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink, lavender, and white during late spring to early summer. This native annual grows in an upright form with slender stems and narrow leaves, creating a cheerful seasonal display in sunny gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Red Spot Clarkia is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, front yard.

  • Can look untidy after blooming
  • May self-seed and appear less structured
  • Best when planted in groups or containers for more formal appearance

Wildlife value

Attracts a variety of native bees and butterflies as a valuable nectar source during its bloom period. Small birds may also eat the seeds after flowering.

Common questions

How much sun does Red Spot Clarkia need?
Red Spot Clarkia grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Red Spot Clarkia bloom?
Red Spot Clarkia blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Red Spot Clarkia native?
Red Spot Clarkia (Clarkia speciosa) is native to CA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Red Spot Clarkia toxic to dogs?
Red Spot Clarkia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Red Spot Clarkia toxic to cats?
Red Spot Clarkia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What pollinators does Red Spot Clarkia attract?
Red Spot Clarkia draws bees and butterflies.
Is Red Spot Clarkia HOA-friendly?
Red Spot Clarkia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Red Spot Clarkia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz