Elkhorn clarkia (Clarkia pulchella)

Clarkia pulchella is an annual which self-seeds in dry sites and disturbed areas. It can be found in Central Idaho as well as other Western U.S. sites. It was named for William Clark of Lewis and Clark. It has a number of common names including Ragged Robin and Elkhorn Clarkia.

The leaves are linear and alternate. The petals are similar in shape to antlers. The plants bloom in Central Idaho in mid-summer and bloom for about a month.

It was noted by Lewis and Clark in June 1806 along the Clearwater River near present-day Kamiah.

Wildflower photo © Nancy Miller. Photo taken 6/13/2007 Moscow Mountain near Viola Idaho