Overview
Mimulus cardinalis Eastw., non Dougl. ex Benth. is a species of flowering plant in the Phrymaceae family. It is commonly referred to as the scarlet monkeyflower due to its bright red flowers that bloom in the summer.
Origin
The scarlet monkeyflower is native to the western regions of North America, including California and Oregon.
Common Names
In addition to scarlet monkeyflower, this plant may also be referred to as cardinal monkeyflower, blood drop emlet, and scarlet muskflower.
Uses
The scarlet monkeyflower is commonly used in horticulture for its striking appearance and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is also used in traditional Native American medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including toothaches, headaches, and sore throats.
Appearance
The scarlet monkeyflower grows up to 3 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. It has lance-shaped leaves that are dark green and slightly fuzzy. The flowers have a tubular shape and are bright red, occasionally with yellow markings inside. The plant typically blooms from May to August.
Light Requirements
Mimulus cardinalis plants require abundant sunlight to grow and bloom properly. They are native to California, where they typically grow in full or partial sun along stream banks and other moist areas. As such, it is recommended to provide these plants with at least 6 hours of direct sun per day to promote optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Mimulus cardinalis plants thrive in mild to warm temperatures, ranging from 45°F to 85°F. These plants are well adapted to the Mediterranean climate of California and can tolerate some frost, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage or kill them. As such, it's important to protect these plants from freezing temperatures and provide proper insulation during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Mimulus cardinalis plants prefer well-draining, moist soils that are rich in organic matter. They thrive in soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 and do not tolerate soils that are too alkaline or acidic. These plants are native to riparian areas and prefer soils that are high in nitrogen and other nutrients. It is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Cultivation methods
Mimulus cardinalis Eastw., non Dougl. ex Benth., commonly known as scarlet monkeyflower, is a perennial herbaceous plant that requires specific care and cultivation methods. It is a native plant of North America, which can grow well in a variety of soils, with a preference for moist and rich soil, acidic to slightly alkaline pH, and a lot of sun exposure.
The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. For plants grown from seed, it is recommended to sow them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the risk of frost has passed in early spring or fall. Scarlet monkeyflower grows to a height of 4 feet and a width of 2 feet
Watering needs
The soil moisture level is a crucial factor in growing scarlet monkeyflower. It requires consistent moisture without waterlogging the roots. Keep the soil wet, especially during summer, or when the temperature is high the soil should never dry out for too long. A thick layer of mulch will help to maintain soil moisture. Water in the early morning, and avoid watering the leaves to keep the plant healthy, and prevent fungal infections.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer for the scarlet monkeyflower during the growing season. Fertilize once a month starting in the spring and finishing in the fall. The fertilizer should not be too heavy as the plant can accumulate nitrogen and develop too many leaves at the expense of flowers
Pruning
The scarlet monkeyflower benefits from regular pruning to keep the plant healthy and promote blooming, pinch off the tips of the stem when the plant is young to encourage lateral branching. Deadhead the plant by cutting off the spent flowers regularly to stimulate new growth and prolong the flowering period. Trim the stem's length in the fall after the flowering season to keep the plant from becoming too leggy.
Propagation of Mimulus cardinalis
Mimulus cardinalis, also known as scarlet monkeyflower, can be propagated using different methods. Here are some of the most common ones:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most popular method for propagating Mimulus cardinalis. The seeds can be collected from the plant when they become mature and brown. Once collected, the seeds can be stored and sowed in the next growing season. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring or fall. The seeds prefer moist and well-drained soil, and should be planted at a depth of 1/8 inch. Germination usually occurs within two weeks.
Division
Division is another propagation method suitable for Mimulus cardinalis. It involves dividing the plant's roots into smaller sections and planting them in new locations. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring or late fall. Before dividing, the plant should be watered well to help loosen the soil around the roots. Once the divisions are made, each section should be planted in a hole that is deep enough to cover the roots but not the stem.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be used to propagate Mimulus cardinalis, although it is not as common as seed or division method. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during the summer when the stems are green and tender. The cuttings should be about 3-4 inches in length and should not have any flowers. The bottom leaves should be removed and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be planted in damp soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Mimulus cardinalis is susceptible to certain diseases that can affect its health and growth. Here are some common diseases affecting this plant and ways to manage them:
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease caused by several species of soil-borne fungi. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and dropping of leaves. Infected plants may also have a foul odor, and the roots may appear brown or black and mushy. To manage root rot, remove all the infected parts of the plant, sterilize your tools, and avoid overwatering. Proper drainage and soil aeration can also help prevent this disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that forms white patches on the plant leaves. It can weaken the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Blight
Bacterial blight is a bacterial disease that causes brown spots and holes on the leaves and stems. The disease can quickly spread and kill the entire plant. To manage bacterial blight, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply copper-based fungicides. Sterilize your tools and avoid overcrowding the plants, as this increases the risk of the disease.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that might affect Mimulus cardinalis and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth, yellowing, and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with water or spray insecticidal soap. You can also release ladybugs or lacewings that feed on aphids as a natural way to control them.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of plants. They can cause holes and defoliation of the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them from the plant by hand and spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide, which affects the digestive system of the caterpillar and can kill them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity, as they prefer dry conditions. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
