Mimulus cardinalis (Scarlet Monkeyflower)

Photographs

My photos:

This photo was taken in San Diego County along the eastern edge of Camp Pendleton, in March.

More photos:

Coe several photos of leaves, flower and entire plant

click photo to enlarge

Plant Information

Scrophulariaceae

In the garden:

Mimulus cardinalis is a freely-branched, erect to decumbent perennial, which is 1 to 4 feet tall. It grows from an underground, running rootstock, which can be easily divided for propagation. Stems are rather floppy. Leaves are dark green and sharply toothed. Corolla is brilliant scarlet to orange-red (sometimes yellowish) and appears from April to October. It is relatively short-lived, as it flowers prolifically. Fortunately, it will reseed freely. It does best in light shade and it requires water both summer and winter—it will die in dry soil. Also, it will take lots of heat if given partial shade and plenty of water. It will flourish in any type of soil. Severely prune this plant after it flowers or it will become weedy in appearance. This pruning will result in new growth and a heavy second flowering. Since it will flower the first year, it is recommended to use as an annual. It is a good plant to attract hummingbirds with and it is striking beside a pond or stream. It is good on slopes, where it adds color in both spring and summer. There are 70+ species of Mimulus in California, representing many forms and colors.

In the wild:

Frequent on stream banks, seeps, and other moist places, below 8000 feet. It is the most common of the monkeyflowers.

Ethnobotany:

No information on use by local natives or settlers.

Field Trips
Anza Borrego Caspers Holy Jim Canyon Idyllwild
Joshua Tree Mt Palomar Rancho Santa Ana Torrey Pines
De Luz Road

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