Overview
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Phrymaceae family. It is native to western North America and is commonly found growing in moist habitats such as streambanks and seeps. This plant has many common names such as sticky monkeyflower, streambank monkeyflower, seep monkeyflower and shortpod yellow monkeyflower.
Appearance
The Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray plant grows up to a height of 15-60 cm and has a basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are alternate, simple, and they measure about 1 to 5 cm long and 0.3 to 2.5 cm wide. The stem is light green and sticky to touch due to the presence of glandular hairs. The plant has yellow or orange-yellow flowers with two-lipped corollas, two stamens, and a pistil. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The fruits are capsules that measure approximately 6-10 mm long and are ovoid to ovate in shape.
Uses
The Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray plant has been used for several medicinal and traditional purposes. The Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest used this plant as a medicinal herb for stomach aches, bladder problems, and eye infections. The sticky monkeyflower is also used in modern herbal medicine to treat liver and gallbladder problems, stomach ulcers, and to relieve anxiety and stress. In addition, this plant is also used in the horticulture industry as an ornamental plant for its beautiful flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant tolerates some shade, but too much shade will result in leggy plants that lack blooms.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in temperatures ranging between 50 and 75°F (10-24°C). It requires cool temperatures which make it suitable for gardens located in cooler climates.
Soil Requirements
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray prefers well-draining soils and will not tolerate soils that are waterlogged. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal. It grows well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils that are rich in organic matter. The addition of compost and manure to soil can improve drainage and can promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
Cultivation methods
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray is a plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and needs well-drained soil. It can grow in a wide range of soil types and can tolerate acidic to alkaline conditions. This plant can be grown in containers or in the ground and is suitable for rock gardens, borders, or as an accent plant.Watering needs
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can cause root rot. It is recommended to water deeply and less frequently than to water frequently and shallowly.Fertilization
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray can benefit from fertilization, especially if grown in containers or in poor soil. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. However, it is important not to apply too much fertilizer as it can cause excessive growth and decrease flowering.Pruning
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray does not require extensive pruning. However, deadheading can encourage more blooms. Remove any faded flowers by cutting them back to a healthy bud or leaf to promote a more prolonged blooming season. Additionally, removing old or damaged foliage can improve the plant's appearance and encourage new growth.Propagation of Mimulus glutinosus J.C.Wendl. var. brachypus Gray
Mimulus glutinosus J.C.Wendl. var. brachypus Gray, commonly known as Sticky Monkeyflower, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It has showy, sticky yellow flowers that bloom from Spring to Fall and is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and easy propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common way to propagate Sticky Monkeyflower. The seeds can be collected from mature seed pods that have turned brown and dried out on the plant. Once collected, remove the seeds from the pods and let them dry for a few days before sowing.
The seeds should be sown in the early Spring after the last frost has passed. They can be sown directly into the soil, or started indoors in peat pots or flats. The soil should be kept moist and warm, and the seedlings will begin to emerge within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves taking cuttings from an established plant and rooting them to form new plants. This method is useful for creating multiple clones of a desirable plant or for propagating a plant that is difficult to grow from seed.
To propagate Sticky Monkeyflower vegetatively, take stem cuttings from the plant in the late Spring or early Summer. Cut a stem that is 2-4 inches long and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and place it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the cutting will begin to root within 2-3 weeks. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Division
Division is a propagation method that involves dividing an established clump of plants into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is useful for rejuvenating an old plant or creating multiple smaller plants from a larger one.
To propagate Sticky Monkeyflower by division, dig up an established clump of plants in the Spring or Fall and separate the clump into smaller sections. Each section should have several stems and roots, and be replanted into a well-draining soil mix in a location with partial shade. Keep the soil moist and within a few weeks, new growth should emerge from each section.
Overall, Sticky Monkeyflower is an easy plant to propagate, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers. Whether by seed, cuttings, or division, this beautiful plant is sure to add a splash of color to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management for Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray, also known as sticky monkeyflower, is susceptible to various plant diseases. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can stunt plant growth and reduce the number of flowers produced.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and can be identified by brown, mushy roots. This disease can cause the plant's leaves to wilt and eventually die.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow to reddish-brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Over time, the leaves may turn brown and fall off.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to provide proper plant care. Ensure that the plant is getting adequate sunlight, soil drainage, and air circulation. Ensure that it is not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. If a disease is detected, remove the affected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Additionally, there are various fungicides and other treatments that can be applied, depending on the specific disease. It is best to consult with a professional to determine the appropriate course of action.
Pest Management for Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray
Mimulus glutinosus J.C. Wendl. var. brachypus Gray is also susceptible to various pests. Some of the common pests that may affect this plant are:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause distorted growth in the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, and heavy infestations can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause stippling, yellowing, and bronzing of the leaves.
- Thrips: Thrips are slender insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to become discolored and distorted.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. If pests are detected, remove them by hand or use an insecticidal soap or oil. Alternatively, beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, can be introduced to the garden to prey on the pests. It is important to avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides, as they can harm beneficial insects and the environment.
