Origin and Common Names
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis is a common plant in California, originating from there and found in other parts of western North America. Common names for the plant include sticky monkey-flower, bush monkey-flower, and orange bush monkey-flower. It belongs to the family Phrymaceae.
General Appearance
The plant is a shrub with a height ranging from 3 to 6 feet. Its leaves are narrow and smooth-edged, with a glossy texture, and grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers are tubular, about 1 inch long, with a bright orange hue. Some varieties may come in yellow or red colors. The plant blooms from spring to summer.
Uses
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis has several uses, including:
- Ornamental purposes: The plant's bright and vibrant flowers make it a popular ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and homes.
- Medicinal purposes: Native Americans have used the plant for medicinal purposes, including treating skin problems, stomach pains, and respiratory illnesses.
- Ecological purposes: The plant attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to the ecosystem. Additionally, it is used for erosion control, as it has a deep root system that helps stabilize soil.
Light Requirements
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis, commonly known as sticky monkeyflower, grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. In the wild, it is commonly found in rocky or sandy areas and grasslands where there is plenty of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Sticky monkeyflower is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. In fact, it can withstand temperatures as low as -5°C and as high as 40°C. However, it grows best in moderate temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. In areas with colder temperatures, the plant may go dormant during the winter months, but will revive during the spring when temperatures warm up.
Soil Requirements
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis prefers well-drained and sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can also grow in alkaline soils. The plant is known to be tolerant to drought and it can grow in soils that receive very little water. However, it can also grow in soils that are moist, especially during the spring and summer months.
Cultivation of Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis is a versatile plant that rarely experiences difficulties when grown under the right conditions. It is an evergreen shrub that can reach a height of 4-6 feet and a similar width. This plant prefers a full sun to partial shade location and well-draining soil. When planting Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis, ensure that you maintain a distance of 6-8 feet between plants to avoid overcrowding.
Watering needs
M. aurantiacus W. Curtis requires little watering, particularly after its roots have been established in the ground. During the hot months, you will need to water your plant every week or biweekly. If you are in a location with heavy rainfall, you might not need to water your plant frequently.
Fertilization
M. aurantiacus W. Curtis does not require excessive fertilization. During its growing season, you can use a slow-release fertilizer, applied according to the package directions, to improve the plant's growth and health. Alternatively, you can use compost tea or fish emulsion to feed the plant's soil.
Pruning
Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis requires little pruning. However, for optimal growth and a more compact shape, you can prune your plant lightly after its bloom season. Deadheading during the flowering period can also encourage more blooms next season. Prune away any dead or diseased stems to maintain the plant's health.
Propagation of Mimulus aurantiacus W. Curtis
Mimulus aurantiacus, also known as sticky monkeyflower, is a beautiful bushy plant that produces stunning orange-yellow blossoms. If you want to propagate this plant, then you have several methods to choose from. Here are some of the most popular propagation methods for Mimulus aurantiacus.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Mimulus aurantiacus is through seeds. Collect ripe seed pods from the plant, and store them in a cool and dry place. After a few weeks, when the pods begin to open, collect the seeds and sow them in potting mix or directly in the garden. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot or garden bed in a shady spot. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks, depending on temperature and moisture levels.
Cuttings Propagation
Mimulus aurantiacus can also be propagated through cuttings. Take 6-inch long tip or stem cuttings from the plant during the spring or summer months. Make sure each cutting has at least two leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut ends into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a potting mix and keep them moist and in a shaded area. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks, after which you can transplant them into individual pots or a garden bed.
Division Propagation
For a faster propagation method, divide the parent plant and plant the new sections elsewhere. Mimulus aurantiacus can be divided in the spring or fall, just as new growth is emerging, using a sharp knife or spade. Gently lift the clump of the plant and separate the roots and the foliage into sections. Replant immediately in well-draining soil in a location with partial shade. Water well and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Mimulus aurantiacus, also known as the sticky monkeyflower or bush monkeyflower, is prone to various diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. The following are some of the common diseases that can affect this plant:
- Phytophthora root rot: This is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Mimulus aurantiacus. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi which attacks the roots, and stems of plants, causing them to wilt and die. To manage this disease, avoid planting the plant in poorly-drained soil. Ensure that the plant is well-watered, but do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot. If the plant is already infected, remove the affected parts immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid watering the leaves from above as this can encourage fungal growth. Also, avoid overcrowding the plants, as this can create a humid environment that is conducive to fungal growth.
- Verticillium wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, followed by plant death. To manage this disease, avoid planting the plant in soil that has been previously infected by the fungus. Rotate crops to prevent the buildup of the fungus in the soil. If the plant is already infected, remove the affected parts immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The following are some of the common pests that can affect Mimulus aurantiacus:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use an insecticidal soap. You can also release beneficial insects like ladybugs that feed on aphids.
- Spider mites: These are small, spider-like pests that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing yellowing and browning. To manage this pest, you can spray the affected parts with water or use an insecticidal soap. You can also release predatory mites that feed on spider mites.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves and buds of the plant, causing skeletonization. To manage this pest, you can pick them off by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
