Mimulus Cardinalis 'scarlet Monkey' - Marginal Aquatic Pond Plant - Lincspplants - MP079

Mimulus cardinalis 'Scarlet Monkey', commonly known as Scarlet Monkeyflower or Crimson Monkeyflowe...

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The Mimulus Cardinalis 'Scarlet Monkey' is a vibrant perennial plant for gardeners seeking to add bold color and attract pollinators to moist or wetland areas. Its key benefit is the striking, large scarlet-red tubular flowers that bloom throughout summer, providing a significant visual impact and supporting local biodiversity. A potential caveat is its requirement for consistently moist or wet soil, making it unsuitable for dry garden conditions.

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Model Part NumberMP079
BrandLincspplants

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FAQs

What kind of soil does Mimulus Cardinalis 'Scarlet Monkey' need?

It requires consistently moist to wet soil. It thrives in boggy conditions, near water features, or in rain gardens where the soil does not dry out.

How often should I water this plant?

Water regularly to keep the soil consistently damp or saturated. This is crucial, especially during dry periods. It can tolerate occasional flooding.

Can this plant be grown in a regular garden bed?

Only if the garden bed can be kept consistently moist or wet. It is not suitable for dry or average garden soil conditions without significant water management.

What is the best location for this plant in my garden?

Ideal locations include pond margins, stream banks, bog gardens, and rain gardens where moisture is abundant. It also does well in full sun to partial shade.

Will hummingbirds visit my garden if I plant Scarlet Monkeyflower?

Yes, the bright red, tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, especially in its native range. Bees also visit the flowers.

How tall does Mimulus Cardinalis 'Scarlet Monkey' get?

It typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet, with a similar spread, forming a dense, bushy clump.

When does it bloom?

The plant blooms from late spring through early autumn, providing color for a significant part of the growing season.

Troubleshooting

Plant wilting or appearing dry

This is almost always due to insufficient moisture. Increase watering frequency significantly to ensure the soil remains consistently wet. Check for any obstructions to water flow if planted near a water feature.

Few or no flowers blooming

Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight (full sun to partial shade) and consistent moisture. Over-fertilization can sometimes reduce flowering; avoid excessive feeding. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage more flowers.

Stems becoming leggy or sprawling excessively

Prune back stems to encourage bushier growth. In very wet conditions, stems may root at nodes; you can trim these back or allow them to form new plants if desired.

Pest or disease issues

While generally robust, watch for common garden pests. Ensure good air circulation if planting densely. Maintain optimal growing conditions (moisture, light) to keep the plant healthy and less susceptible.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Spectacular, eye-catching red flowers that bloom for an extended period.
  • Excellent for attracting hummingbirds and bees, boosting garden biodiversity.
  • Well-suited for challenging wet or boggy garden areas.
  • Relatively low maintenance for a flowering perennial.
  • Provides naturalistic beauty along water features or in naturalized settings.

Cons

  • Requires consistently moist to wet soil and will not tolerate dry conditions.
  • May require deadheading to encourage continuous blooming and maintain appearance.
  • Can spread and root at nodes in very wet conditions, potentially requiring management.
  • Best suited for specific garden environments like water gardens or rain gardens.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup: Plant Mimulus Cardinalis 'Scarlet Monkey' in spring or fall. Choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has consistently moist to wet soil. If planting in a garden bed that isn't naturally wet, consider amending the soil with compost and ensuring it stays well-watered.

Compatibility: This plant is ideal for pond margins, bog gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized areas near water sources. It pairs well with other moisture-loving plants such as irises, astilbes, and ferns. It is not suitable for dry borders or containers that dry out quickly.

Care: The most critical aspect of care is maintaining consistent moisture. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil damp or even saturated. Fertilizing is generally not required if planted in rich, moist soil. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a longer blooming period and a neater appearance. The plant can be propagated by division in spring, stem cuttings, or from seed. In colder climates, it may benefit from a layer of mulch in winter.