1. * Large-flowered Monkeyflower – Diplacus grandiflorus
(DIP-luh-cus grand-ee-FLOR-us )
Family: Phrymaceae (Lopseed Family) ; formerly in Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
Native to: Foothills of the Sierras, Pinnacles & Santa Lucia mtns of northern/central CA; usually on
rocky cliffs, south- & west-facing hillsides, canyon slopes, disturbed areas, borders of chaparral,
open forest below 5,000’.
perennial/sub-shrub
mature height: 1-3 ft.
mature width: 2 -4 ft.
Drought-deciduous sub-shrub (woody at base) with dark-green, narrow leaves. Leaves are glossy
and become sticky in hot weather. Lives 10-20 years if not over-watered.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring (April to July; possibly earlier in western L.A. county.
Flowers
are large compared to other shrubby native Monkeyflowers (up to 2-3” across) and look Azalea-like.
Flower color ranges from light orange/salmon to medium orange. Corolla is usually lighter color
(even white) with darker orange markings. Very showy in bloom & long-blooming! ‘Esselen’ has
tangerine-colored flowers; ‘White’ has white flowers.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: One of the best shrubby monkeyflowers for hot, sunny areas of the garden.
Also does well in dry shade – for example, under oaks. Pretty as a groundcover on slopes or under
trees. Pretty in pots/containers. Lovely addition to the hummingbird garden. Deer-resistant.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Monkeyflowers, Azaleas.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food. Hummingbirds love nectar!
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Full sun to dappled shade
Well-drained; sandy or rocky is best.
Occasional water will keep it green (Zone 2); but fine as Zone 1-2
None required (except in containers – ½ strength)
Organic mulch recommended; no hot, reflected sun.
Pinch (tip-prune) new growth to keep the plant bushy. Prune back in fall to keep
from becoming leggy. Be careful not to cut back into old woody part of stems.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: 2-3 wk cold-moist treat
by cuttings: yes; semi-soft or tip
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 6, 8, 11-14, 16, 20-28
2/29/11
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