clones flowering!

What is the latest into flowering clones can be taken?

i would take them the first day of 1212 if i had a choice

because after the flower cycle sets in you have to grow the plant out of that stage again and it takes forever.

1 week tops

I've taken clones at 3+ weeks before with no adverse effects, apart from a longer rooting time. However, I wouldn't recommend taking clones at all in flowering if you can help it, as it weakens the genetics to some degree.