Overview
Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth. is a flowering plant that is native to California and is widely grown for its ornamental qualities. This plant is well-liked for its bright flowers and distinct foliage, which make it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.
Common Names
The plant goes by several common names, including Sticky Monkeyflower, Red Monkeyflower, Red Sticky Monkeyflower, Scarlet Monkeyflower, and Red Stemmed Monkeyflower. The name "sticky monkeyflower" refers to the plant's sticky leaves, which are covered in secretions that help the plant retain moisture.
Appearance
Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth. is a bushy shrub that typically grows up to 3 feet tall and up to 4 feet wide. The plant has an upright growth habit and produces numerous branches that are woody at the base and covered with glandular hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped, measuring up to 3 inches long and 1 inch wide, and have a shiny green surface with a sticky texture.
The plant produces showy flowers that are tubular in shape, measuring up to 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are typically bright red or orange-red in color and have a yellow patch at the base of the tube. They bloom from late spring to early summer and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Uses
Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth. is mainly used for ornamental purposes in landscapes and gardens. The plant's bright flowers and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for borders, hedges, and container gardens. It is tolerant of drought and can grow well in a variety of soils.
The plant has also been used in traditional medicine by Native Americans to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and asthma. The leaves and stems were made into teas or smoked to alleviate symptoms. However, it is important to note that the plant may have toxic or hallucinogenic properties and should not be ingested without proper guidance and care.
Light Requirements
The Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus plant typically prefers a location that receives full sunlight. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is necessary for proper growth and the flowering of the plant. However, in hot summer regions, light shade in the afternoon could benefit the plant. Insufficient light may lead to poor blooming and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus plant is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It prefers mild climates and cultivates well in coastal regions. The plant can tolerate cold temperatures up to 25°F (-4°C) and is drought resistant. However, extremely low temperatures could lead to the plant's death, especially if the soil is moist.
Soil Requirements
The Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus plant requires well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and with a pH range between 6.0-7.0. The plant could thrive in different types of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, as long as they are well-drained. The addition of compost or manure to the soil before planting could enrich the soil's nutrient composition and enhance the plant's growth and blooming.
Cultivation
Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth. can be cultivated in USDA zones 8-10. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The plant benefits from occasional pruning.
Watering Needs
Water the plant regularly and keep the soil moist to the touch. Do not overwater as it may lead to root rot. During the dry season or drought periods, water the plant more often but avoid watering the plant too much as this may cause it to lose its vibrant color.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to help boost growth. Alternatively, mulching with organic compost once a year can also help improve soil fertility. As with all plants, avoid fertilizer burn by not applying too much at once.
Pruning
Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth. is a relatively low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much pruning. However, pruning can help control its size and shape. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth so as not to damage new growth. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote new growth and improve the plant's overall appearance.
Propagation of Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus
Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus, commonly known as sticky monkeyflower, can be propagated by several methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus is by seed. The seeds can be harvested from mature capsules after they have dried on the plant. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in well-draining soil. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist until they germinate. Germination usually occurs within 1-2 weeks. The new seedlings should be kept moist and protected from direct sunlight until they reach a height of 2-3 inches.
Cuttings Propagation
Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Choose healthy stems that have not yet started to flower. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a container filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and cover the container with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the container in a shaded area and wait for the roots to develop. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be transplanted to a larger container or out into the garden.
Division Propagation
Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Dig up the plant and gently separate the root system into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and a good root system. Plant the new sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Diplacus glutinosus (J.C. Wendl.) Nutt. var. puniceus (Nutt.) Benth.
Diplacus glutinosus var. puniceus, commonly known as the sticky monkeyflower, is a beautiful plant native to California that requires careful disease and pest management to remain healthy. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: is a fungal disease that appears as white powdery spots on leaves, stems, and flowers of the sticky monkeyflower. Disease management involves removing and disposing of severely infected plant parts, ensuring proper air circulation by pruning overgrown stems, and avoiding overhead watering, which can spread the spores. Fungicides can also provide effective control.
2. Black Spot: This fungal disease manifests as dark spots with fringed margins on the plant's leaves, leading to leaf drop and eventual death of the entire plant. Disease management includes maintaining proper plant hygiene practices by removing fallen leaves, ensuring adequate air circulation, and applying fungicides.
3. Leaf Spot: This is another fungal disease that appears as small, circular, brown spots on the leaves of the plant, causing them to wither and die. Disease management involves removing and destroying infected leaves and applying a fungicide to the plant to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: These tiny pests suck on the plant's sap, causing yellow patches on the leaves, which eventually turn brown. Disease management includes keeping the plant well-watered and moist to avoid water stress, removing severely infested plant parts and applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their spread.
2. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. Disease management involves removing aphids by hand or using a strong stream of water, applying insecticidal soap or botanical insecticides, and encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
3. Thrips: These tiny black insects cause damage by feeding on young buds and flowers of the sticky monkeyflower plant. It's important to remove infested plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage their spread.
By following good gardening practices, such as proper irrigation, removing diseased or pest-infested plant parts, and applying appropriate treatments, the sticky monkeyflower can remain healthy and thrive in your garden.
