Overview
The Diplacus puniceus Nutt. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Phrymaceae. It is a species native along the western and southwestern coast of North America.
Common Names
Diplacus puniceus Nutt. is commonly known as Red Monkey Flower, Red Mimulus, Sticky Monkeyflower, and Scarlet Monkeyflower. The names are a result of the plant's monkey-like face shape of the flowers and the sticky nature of the stem and leaves.
Appearance
The Red Monkey Flower grows up to a height of 75 cm and spreads to form broad clumps. The leaves are glossy, medium green, and oval-shaped. The stem and leaves are sticky due to glandular hairs, which is where the common name 'Sticky Monkeyflower' comes from. The plant produces tubular-shaped flowers that are red, orange, or pink with yellow throats. They are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem and are generally 2-3 cm long.
Uses
The Red Monkey Flower has been used by Native American tribes for many years for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. They used the plant to treat a variety of ailments such as bronchial problems, skin irritations, and sore throats. The plant is also a popular garden plant, and because of its sticky nature, it is attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it ideal for those wishing to attract wildlife to their garden.
Light Requirements:
The Diplacus puniceus Nutt. plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. Hence, it is recommended to plant it in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient lighting can cause stunted growth or even complete death of the plant.
Temperature Requirements:
The Diplacus puniceus Nutt. plant prefers moderate temperatures and can grow well in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°F to 100°F (-12°C to 38°C), but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can cause the plant to die. It is always recommended to protect the plant during periods of extreme high or low temperatures.
Soil Requirements:
The Diplacus puniceus Nutt. plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot and the eventual death of the plant. Adding organic matter to the soil can also help improve its fertility and drainage properties, making it more conducive to the growth of the plant.
Cultivation
Diplacus puniceus Nutt., also known as crimson monkeyflower, is a California native plant that thrives in direct sunlight and well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It requires a minimum of eight hours of full sun and can be propagated using both seedlings and stem cuttings.
The plant can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide and has a bushy, erect habit. It is a great choice for rock or wild gardens and as a border or container plant. As a native plant, it attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators, making it an excellent addition to any wildlife garden.
Watering Needs
Diplacus puniceus Nutt. prefers moderate to low watering frequencies. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant's overall health. When planting, make sure to provide adequate drainage by adding a layer of gravel or sand to the bottom of the planting hole. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the dormant period.
Fertilization
Although Diplacus puniceus Nutt. can thrive in poor soils, the plant can benefit from annual fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 5-5-5 formula, once a year in late winter or early spring. Avoid applying the fertilizer during the hot summer months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
To promote bushier growth and a more compact habit, prune the tips of the plant in the early spring before the growing season starts. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms and remove dried or damaged leaves as needed throughout the year.
Propagation of Diplacus puniceus Nutt.
There are different ways to propagate Diplacus puniceus Nutt. including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division of root clumps.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Diplacus puniceus Nutt. via seed is relatively easy and straightforward. Collect mature seeds that have fallen from the plant, store in a cool, dry place, and sow in the early spring. Seeds may be sown directly in the ground or in pots or trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water gently, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings typically emerge within 2-3 weeks. Transplant the seedlings to their permanent location once they are big enough to handle.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation via stem cuttings is another method to easily propagate Diplacus puniceus Nutt. Take stem cuttings early in the growing season while the plant is actively growing. Cut the stem cleanly just below a node, remove leaves from the lower part of the stem, and dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, and mist frequently to keep the cutting moist, but not overly wet. Once the cutting has developed roots, transfer it to its permanent location.
Division of Root Clumps
Propagation of Diplacus puniceus Nutt. via division is another easy method. Wait until the plant is dormant, and then dig up the root clump. Gently divide the root clump into sections, each containing a few stems and healthy roots. Plant the sections in their permanent location at the same depth as they were growing previously, making sure to firm the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Disease Management
Diplacus puniceus Nutt. is generally a hardy plant, but it is susceptible to some diseases. The most common diseases that might affect this plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and, if infected, removing the affected leaves and disposing of them properly to prevent spread.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It is most commonly seen during periods of high humidity and can be prevented by providing good air circulation and removing infected leaves. Fungicidal treatments are also available to manage powdery mildew.
Root rot: This fungal disease is often caused by overwatering. It can be prevented by ensuring the plant has good drainage or by using a well-draining soil mix. If infected, the soil should be allowed to dry out before watering again.
Pest Management
Diplacus puniceus Nutt. can also be affected by some pests that can cause significant damage if left untreated. The most common pests include spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider mites: These pests are very tiny and difficult to spot. They usually appear as a fine webbing on the leaves, and cause yellowing of the foliage. They can be controlled using insecticidal sprays, or by increasing the humidity around the plant to deter them.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can appear in large numbers and cause the leaves to curl and distort. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly spraying the plant with a jet of water can also keep aphids at bay.
Thrips: These pests can cause stunted growth and a distorted appearance of the leaves. They can be controlled using neem oil or insecticidal soap, or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Regular monitoring for signs of pest infestation, coupled with good cultural practices, such as providing proper nutrition and pruning, can help keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
