Allegheny monkey flower
Mimulus ringens · Phrymaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant allegheny monkey flower: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (July to September)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15 °C
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Fresh to moist, well-drained
Care
Watering
Monkey flower loves constantly moist soil without being waterlogged. Water regularly during the growth and flowering periods, especially in hot weather. In autumn and winter, reduce watering but don't let the substrate dry out completely.
Light exposure
Place this plant in partial shade to dappled shade. It tolerates morning sun but prefers protection from the scorching afternoon rays. Too much sun exposure can slow its growth.
Soil and substrate
Choose soil rich in organic matter, fresh and well-drained. A mixture with potting soil, peat or decomposed compost works perfectly. Improve moisture retention by adding mulch on the surface.
Pruning and pinching
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a more compact shape. After flowering, remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. Light pruning in late winter helps maintain a good form.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer from May to September, roughly every 15 days. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Reduce applications in autumn and stop in winter.
Diseases and pests
Monkey flower is generally robust. In overly humid and poorly ventilated conditions, watch for powdery mildew and root rot. Aphids may occasionally affect young shoots. Ensure good air circulation and avoid stagnant moisture.
Did you know?
The name 'ringens' means 'yawning' in Latin, referring to the characteristic shape of the flower that opens like a mouth. In North America, monkey flower grows naturally along watercourses and marshy areas, where it attracts pollinators from early summer onwards. It's a precious plant for wet gardens and shaded areas where few other flowers will thrive.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Spotted monkey flowerErythranthe guttata
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- LopseedPhryma leptostachya
- Musk monkeyflowerErythranthe moschata
- Red bush monkeyflowerDiplacus puniceus
- Erythranthe lewisiiErythranthe lewisii
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.