Ruby Chalice Clarkia (Clarkia rubicunda) is in the evening primrose family family (Onagraceae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 2,103 research-grade flowering observations of it in our sample, peaking in June.
Nationally it blooms mainly from May to July, but timing varies a lot by state and elevation — see the table below.
When to photograph Ruby Chalice Clarkia: observations by month (U.S.)
About Ruby Chalice Clarkia
Clarkia rubicunda is a flowering plant endemic to California. It is found mostly on the Central Coast part of the state. The plant is known by the common names ruby chalice clarkia and farewell to spring.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Ruby Chalice Clarkia by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 2,103 | June | May–Jul |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related wildflowers (evening primrose family)
Fireweed
California fuchsia
Pinkladies
Browneyes
Winecup Clarkia
California primrose
Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade
Elegant Clarkia
Photography tips
- Photograph flowers on calm, overcast mornings to avoid wind blur and harsh shadows.
- Get low: a shallow depth of field (f/2.8–f/5.6) isolates a bloom against soft color.
- Stay on trails — trampling meadows kills plants and ruins next year's display.
- Try a kaleidoscope abstract of a single bloom with our online kaleidoscope tool.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Ruby Chalice Clarkia?
Nationally, June has the most observations, with the main season from May to July.
Where is Ruby Chalice Clarkia most often seen?
The most observations come from California.