1. * Primrose Monkeyflower – Mimulus primuloides
(MIM-yoo-lus prim-yoo-LO-i-dees )
Family: Phrymaceae (Lopseed Family) ; formerly in Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
Native to: Northwestern CA and mountains of S. CA to OR and NV. Locally in San Bernardino & San
Jacinto Mtns, Mt. Pinos; wet meadows, seeps, stream sides in mountain forests to 11,000 ft.
perennial wildflower
mature height: < 1 ft.
mature width: 1-2 ft.
Low-growing perennial with opposite leaves. Foliage color ranges from light green to purple-green.
Leaves are mostly basal & may be rounded or narrow (var./ssp. linearis). A charming little plant
superficially reminiscent of forest violets.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in late spring/summer in the wild (June-Aug) but may be earlier in local
gardens. Individual flowers held above the foliage on a dainty erect stem. Pretty delicate flowers,
from half an inch to an inch long, the corolla-lobes all alike, bright yellow, often dotted with crimson.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: A truly charming little plant for containers, where you can appreciate its delicate
beauty. Great low groundcover in small areas where soil is moist – would look good growing
between pavers. Great for garden water features like waterfalls, streams, bog gardens, fountains.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native violets, Baby Tears, Lobelia & other herbaceous groundcovers.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food. Hummingbird plant.
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Part-shade best; morning sun or dappled shade.
Well-drained; pH 5.0-7.0.
Regular water (Zone 3); must have moist soil.
Fine.
Fine with added organics & leaf mulch.
Easy to grow with regular water. Will spread via rhizomes and re-seed if happy.
Remove seed capsules to prevent re-seeding.
Management:
Propagation: from seed: in spring – barely cover
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 8, 13
by cuttings: probably
3/1/11
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