Origin
Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck, commonly known as seep monkeyflower, western monkeyflower, or yellow monkeyflower, is a herbaceous plant native to western North America. This plant is commonly found in wet or marshy areas, such as seeps, stream banks, and springs.
General Appearance
Seep monkeyflower is a perennial herb that can grow up to 80 cm in height. Its leaves are lance-shaped, smooth, and can be either opposite or alternate. The plant has showy yellow flowers with a distinctive two-lipped shape. The upper lip of the flower is hooded, and the lower lip is elongated and spotted with orange or red.
Uses
Seep monkeyflower has a long history of medicinal use by indigenous peoples of North America. They used the plant to treat a range of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory infections, and skin conditions. Today, it is still used in some herbal remedies and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also popular as an ornamental plant in gardens, due to its attractive blooms.
Light Requirements
Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck thrives in areas with partial to full sunlight, and it requires around six hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant is grown in a shaded area, it may not flower as much as it would with adequate sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions. However, it grows best in temperatures between 60° and 75°F. Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck is susceptible to frost damage and cannot tolerate temperatures below 32°F.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. The pH level of the soil should range between 6.0 and 7.5. Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck grows well in soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The plant is also known to be adaptable to both sandy and clay soils.
Cultivation
Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck is a hardy plant that grows well in most soil types. It prefers soils that are moist and rich in nutrients, but it can tolerate a range of soil conditions. This plant also prefers a partially shaded environment, but can also grow in full sun if provided with adequate water.
During cultivation, it is important to plant the Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck seeds at a depth of about 1/8 inch in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
Watering Needs
The Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus(Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck requires consistent moisture during the growing period. The plant should be watered deeply about once a week or whenever the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus(Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied once every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
The Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus(Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck requires minimal pruning. Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Overall, pruning should only be done to remove diseased or damaged plant parts.
Propagation of Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck
Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck, commonly known as large sepal monkeyflower, is a native plant of western North America. This plant can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest and most reliable method to propagate Mimulus guttatus. Seeds can be collected from mature dried capsules or purchased from a reputable dealer. Sow the seeds in a seed bed or in containers filled with well-drained soil in the late fall or early spring for spring germination. The seeds require light to germinate, so do not bury them too deep. Keep the soil consistently moist, and the seeds should germinate in one to two weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is also an effective method for cloning this plant. Take cuttings from healthy Mimulus guttatus plants in the spring or early summer when new growth is present. Cut a section of stem approximately 3-4 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a pot filled with moist sand or a well-draining potting medium, and keep the soil consistently moist. Roots should form in approximately 2-4 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division is another option for propagating Mimulus guttatus. Divide the plant in the spring before the new growth appears or in the fall after the plant has finished blooming. Carefully dig up the plant, and pull the clumps apart with your hands or separate them with a sharp knife. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil consistently moist.
Disease and Pest Management for Mimulus guttatus DC. var. lyratus (Benth.) Pennell ex M.E. Peck
Mimulus guttatus var. lyratus, commonly known as yellow monkeyflower, is a hardy plant that flourishes in moist rocky areas, streambanks, and wetlands. Despite its hardiness, the plant is vulnerable to several diseases and pests that can damage or kill it if not managed well. Here are some of the diseases and pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown rust spots on the leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation, stunting, and poor growth. The disease spreads through water splash, wind, and infected plant debris. To manage rust, remove and dispose of infected plant debris, prune infected leaves, and apply fungicides as recommended by a professional.
2. Pythium Root Rot
Pythium root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the root system, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. The disease is common in areas with poor drainage, high humidity, and overwatering. To manage the disease, improve the soil drainage, avoid overwatering, use fungicides, and sterilize garden tools to prevent spreading the disease.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing the leaves to curl, yellow, and die. They also produce sticky honeydew that attracts ants and promotes fungal growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or ladybugs that feed on them. Also, maintain proper plant hygiene, and avoid overfertilizing the plant, which attracts aphids.
2. Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs are common pests that feed on the leaves and stems, leaving behind slimy trails and damaged tissues. The pests thrive in humid conditions and can destroy the entire plant if not managed well. To manage snails and slugs, handpick them at night when they are active, use baits such as copper strips, iron phosphate, or beer traps. Also, avoid overwatering the plant and remove any debris that can provide shelter for the pests.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Mimulus guttatus var. lyratus healthy and thriving.
