Flower Library
Godetia (Satin Flower)
Clarkia amoena (syn. Godetia) · Nachtkerzengewächse (Onagraceae)
Godetia is one of the underrated summer flowers: silky, cup-shaped blooms sitting densely along the stem, reminiscent of small azaleas. In its main season from June to September we buy it fresh at the Veiling Rhein-Maas – for bouquets that look like a summer garden yet hold up surprisingly well.
- Season
- June – July – August – September
- Vase life
- 5–10 days
- Latin name
- Clarkia amoena (syn. Godetia)
- Colors
- Pink, Salmon, Red, White, Purple, Bicolour
Typical of godetia are the four silky, glossy petals, often with a darker eye or pale rim – hence the name satin flower. The Grace series, which dominates the cut-flower market, delivers long upright stems with plenty of buds that open reliably one after another in the vase.
In floristry, godetia is a rewarding focal flower for summer work: it brings the fullness of an azalea bloom to a bouquet without being delicate. With lisianthus, sweet peas and a veil of fine filler it makes a romantic summer bouquet with true cottage-garden character.
When buying we look for stems with the lowest one or two blooms open and the rest carrying plump, colour-showing buds – that gives the longest pleasure. Soft stems or yellowing foliage are signs of tired stock, which we leave standing at the clock.
In colour, godetia plays the whole summer palette from soft pink through salmon to rich purple; the bicoloured varieties in particular look hand-painted. It suits playful farm-garden bouquets just as well as tonally sorted, modern monochrome arrangements.
Is Godetia (Satin Flower) toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Non-toxic
- Cats
- Non-toxic
- Dogs
- Non-toxic
Clarkia is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs and children – an uncomplicated choice for households with pets.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle and remove wilting lower leaves – otherwise they rot in the water.
- 02Stand in fresh, cool water with flower food; this helps the many buds to open.
- 03Change the water every two days, recutting the stems as you do.
- 04Keep cool and avoid draughts – the buds will then open evenly.
- 05Gently pluck out spent blooms so the next buds gain space and energy.
Frequently asked
- How long does godetia last in a vase?
- Five to ten days. Because many buds along the stem open in succession, the bouquet stays lively the whole time – provided the water is changed regularly.
- When is godetia in season?
- As a classic summer flower, from June to September. During this window it arrives at the auction in a wide range of colours – outside the season it is hard to find.
- Is godetia toxic to pets?
- No, clarkia is considered non-toxic to cats, dogs and humans. As with all cut flowers, the vase water still should not be drunk.
- Why is godetia also called satin flower or summer azalea?
- Satin flower because of the silky sheen of the petals, reminiscent of satin fabric; summer azalea because the cup-shaped, often ruffled blooms packed along the stem recall a flowering azalea.