With a common name almost as noticeable as the plant itself Mimulus cardinalis is a 'must-have' for anyone with a damp garden or pond area. Cheekily known as the Scarlet Monkey Flower it is claimed that the trumpet shaped blooms resemble a smiling monkey's face - not sure we can see it but it's a cute name, nonetheless. Plant at the margins of a pond or in a bog garden and this intriguing plant will flower from June to August with a snapdragon-type flower in shades of scarlet and yellow with fascinating markings to the centre of each bloom. Foliage is slightly sticky and furry with a lush and vibrant hue which adds even more to the exotic looks of Mimulus cardinalis.Although unfussy on soil type, plants prefer a sunny or partially shaded spot with any aspect other than north facing. A hardy, herbaceous aquatic perennial which reaches 90cm tall and spreads up to 50cm. Foliage emerges in April and dies back below ground in October, returning the following spring.
Flower and Foliage Months
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May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Foliage Month
Flowering Month