Overview
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a small herbaceous perennial that is native to the western United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Scarlet Monardella, Hummingbird Coyote Mint, and Red Monardella.
Appearance
Scarlet Monardella is a low-growing plant that usually grows up to 1 foot tall. The plant is well-branched and has hairy stems. The leaves of the plant are small, and the flowers are arranged in a dense terminal cluster. The plant produces magenta-red, tubular flowers that are about 2 inches long and have a minty scent.
Uses
The Scarlet Monardella is widely used in the southwestern United States by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. The leaves and flowers are used in traditional medicine to treat stomach and intestinal problems, coughs, and colds. The plant is also used in traditional ceremonies and for smudging.
Light Requirements
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray typically thrives in full to partial sunlight. In areas with high temperatures, it prefers to grow under partial shade to avoid excessive dryness.
Temperature Conditions
The plant prefers to grow in temperate climates that are not too hot nor too cold. In general, the optimal temperature range is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit may negatively affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray needs well-drained and moderately fertile soil to thrive. The soil should be composed of loamy sand or sandy loam with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It cannot grow in poorly drained soils with high salt content or heavy clay content.
Cultivation
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It enjoys full sun or partial shade and prefers a location that has good air circulation. This plant is best grown from seed and germinated indoors before being transplanted outside.
Watering needs
The watering needs of Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray are minimal once established. It prefers to be on the drier side and only requires watering when the soil has thoroughly dried out. It is essential to water at the base of the plant, avoiding getting the foliage wet, as it can increase susceptibility to diseases.
Fertilization
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray does not require heavy fertilization. It will benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer once in the spring.
Pruning
To keep Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray tidy and promote an extended blooming period, it is recommended to deadhead faded flowers regularly. Prune back the plant to 6 inches above the ground in the late fall when it has gone dormant for the winter. This will encourage new growth in the spring.
Propagation of Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray
Propagation of Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray can be done through a few different methods. In general, it is most successful to propagate this plant from cuttings, though it can also be grown from seed.
Propagating from Cuttings
To propagate Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray from cuttings, first identify healthy stems that are firm and have plenty of leaves. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Cut a section of stem that is approximately 6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. You can dip the cut end in rooting hormone if desired, then plant the stem cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. The plant should root in a few weeks and can be transferred to a larger pot or garden bed once it has established roots.
Propagating from Seed
If you prefer to propagate Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray from seed, collect the seeds from the plant in late summer or autumn.
Fill a pot with well-draining soil and sprinkle the seeds on top. Cover lightly with soil, water gently, and provide bright light. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Once they have established a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted to a larger container or garden bed.
Disease Management
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray is generally a low maintenance plant that is not prone to several serious diseases. However, some fungal infections may occasionally affect the plant, including powdery mildew and rusts. Regular monitoring of the plant's foliage for signs of fungus infections is crucial to avoid severe damage.
To manage fungal infections, proper sanitation practices are necessary. The removal and destruction of infected plant parts can prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and ensure adequate ventilation to help the plant dry quickly, making it less susceptible to fungus infections. Fungicides can also be used to control fungus infections, but they should be applied as soon as the disease is detected and according to label instructions.
Pest Management
Monardella macrantha Gray var. tenuiflora S. Wats. ex Gray is generally not prone to severe pest infestations. However, some common pests may occasionally affect the plant, including spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can damage the plant by sucking sap from the leaves, causing stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and distorted leaves.
To manage pest infestation, it is essential to maintain proper sanitation practices, including the regular removal of weeds and debris that may harbor pests. Natural enemies, such as lady beetles and lacewings, can help control pest populations. In severe cases, insecticidal soaps and other eco-friendly insecticides may help control pests. However, they should be used judiciously, following label instructions to avoid harming beneficial insects and the environment.
