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Plant Guide

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Mimulus aurantiacus

  • Common Name
    Sticky Monkey Flower
  • CA Native
    California Native
  • Plant Type
    Perennial
  • Size
    2' - 4' x 2'
  • Flower Color
    Yellow, Orange, White, Maroon
  • Bloom Time
    • Spring
    • Summer
  • Leaves
    Slender Green Sticky Leaves
  • Evergreen
    Evergreen
  • Deer Resistant
    Occasionally Damaged
  • Wildlife Value
    • Attracts Beneficial Insects
    • Bees
    • Hummingbirds
  • Growth Rate
    Moderate
  • Hardiness
    Hardy
  • Adverse Growth Factors
    None
  • Special Features
    • Low Maintenance
  • Water Use
    • Drought Tolerant
    • Low
  • Soil pH
    6.5-7.5 (neutral)
  • Exposure
    • Full Sun
    • Partial Shade
    • Shade
  • Soil Type
    Not Particular
  • Drainage
    Well Drained
  • Description and Cultural Plant Tips

    This is a drought tolerant native that produces tube-like flowers (20 - 25mm long with five broad lobes) that range from white to red, orange and yellow. In a wild garden setting or on rocky hillsides, this plant is a must. Can be a problem in irrigated gardens where it will get too much water. If given too much water and fertilizer, they respond with lots of flowers and rapid growth but will be short-lived. Suitable for xeriscaping.

    This plant grows in many climates and will thrive in many soil types, even in serpentine soild. Can plant in full sun near the coast and in part sun in inland areas. Plant slightly above the soil grade in fall or early winter for best results. Will tolerate a wide range of soil pH's. Water occasionally in summer but no regular irrigation needed. Should withhold water in late summer to encourage plant to go dormant. Can get rangy if not cut back in the early spring (cut back to about 18 inches for a more compact plant).

    This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

     No serious diseases or pests.

  • Master Gardener Comments

    Great plant for habitat garden. However, in my area of Marin, it is nibbled on by the deer.

  • Varietals

    M. aurantiacus 'Dark Gulch' - large peach petals with purple highlights

    M. aurantiacus 'Phil's White' - large pale yellow to ivory flowers that fade to white