I originally identified this as Fireweed (Chamerion augustifolium), however, upon re-examination I noted that the leaves were somewhat wider and the tips rounded than the examples i could find. I can't tell from my photos if the leaves are alternate or opposite. Should be alternate. It was formerly classified as Epilobium augustifolium. The flower sure looks like Fireweed, but the leaves are causing me to have some doubt. Anyone venture a guess?
I believe that this is common clarkia (Clarkia rhomboidea), even though I haven't seen a specimen of this species yet. If this is true then fireweed was not too far off because this belongs to the same family.
Well, actually there are typically huge gaps between fireweed petals, see e. g. my photograph on the page http://www.flogaus-faust.de/e/epilangu.htm. The photo was taken in Germany, but I don't think that the American plants look so much different. This clarkia species looks very different, e. g. because of the peculiar scales or projections near the base of the claws and probably also because of the number of flowers. The leaves look different as well.
Well, actually the gaps arent exactly the same, but there are gaps. (GRIN) Thanks to both of you. I went back and compared the two. I am more than satisfied that it is Clarkia rhomboidea and not Fireweed. Surprising how at first glance they appear so similar. It would be nice if more photographs were available that provide detailed views of the foliage. In this case the wider more rounded leaves are what tipped me off that I probably had it wrong. Of course I then didn't have a clue what it really was. BTW Ron, I followed your suggestion regarding plant descriptions vs photos and found that it is giving me a much better understanding of what to look for when examining a new plant. Thanks again. Oh yes, almost forgot they are both in the family: Onagraceae. See, I'm learning.
