While it is best known for its annuals and perennials, this mostly North and South American genus of some 180 species also includes a few shrubs and fast-grown upright plants. The leaves are generally deep to light green, sharply toothed, hairy, and slightly sticky. The stems are also covered in fine hairs and have sticky glands. The tubular flowers have flared mouths and come in a wide range of colors, including brown, orange, yellow, red, pink, and crimson. The spotting and mottling on the flowers has been likened to grinning monkey faces, which has resulted in the common name of monkey flower. The genus is also known as musk.
CULTIVATION
In mild climates, shrubby Mimulus plants are easy to grow provided they are given full sun and a well-drained soil that remains moist through summer. They are quick growing and become untidy unless routinely pinched back. They tend to be short-lived but are readily raised from seed or half-hardened cuttings.
Top Tip
To add color in a hurry, plant Mimulus species in a border, window box, or container. Many of these cute plants also adapt well to wet or damp conditions.
CULTIVATION
In mild climates, shrubby Mimulus plants are easy to grow provided they are given full sun and a well-drained soil that remains moist through summer. They are quick growing and become untidy unless routinely pinched back. They tend to be short-lived but are readily raised from seed or half-hardened cuttings.
Top Tip
To add color in a hurry, plant Mimulus species in a border, window box, or container. Many of these cute plants also adapt well to wet or damp conditions.
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