How to Grow Sticky Monkeyflower
iNaturalist
Sticky Monkeyflower
Mimulus aurantiacus
shrubA semi-evergreen to deciduous California native shrub known for its vibrant orange, yellow, or red tubular flowers that bloom nearly year-round in mild climates. The sticky, aromatic foliage and prolific flowering make it an excellent choice for dry gardens and pollinator landscapes. This drought-tolerant shrub typically grows 3-5 feet tall and wide.
When should you plant Sticky Monkeyflower in your zone?
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Example Sticky Monkeyflower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sticky Monkeyflower
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Sticky Monkeyflower
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Sticky Monkeyflower dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 9-11; can be grown in zone 8b with protection
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Get my Sticky Monkeyflower timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall seedlings with soft, sticky foliage and opposite leaves; very delicate stage
Provide bright, indirect light; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; ensure excellent drainage to prevent damping-off disease
Vegetative Growth
2-3 monthsYoung shrub develops branching structure with increasingly sticky, aromatic foliage; no flowers yet
Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings; apply light pinching to encourage bushiness; provide full sun exposure
Flowering
3-6 months (nearly continuous in mild climates)Abundant tubular flowers in orange, yellow, red, or bicolor combinations appear at branch tips; flowers attract hummingbirds and bees
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; reduce watering frequency; provide afternoon shade in extreme heat
Mature Shrub
3-10+ years (lifespan)Established plant reaches full height and width; dense branching with consistent flower production; may lose some foliage in cold winter climates
Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead wood; maintain dry conditions; apply gravel mulch; minimal fertilizer needed
Decline
VariableAfter 5-10 years, older plants may become woody and sparse with reduced flowering
Prune hard to rejuvenate or propagate from cuttings to start new plants; consider replacement
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases; ensure adequate air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves
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Inspect regularly; remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; spray neem oil if widespread
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Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; remove affected plants; ensure gravel mulch prevents soil splash
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or potassium bicarbonate fungicide if needed
Uses
Hummingbird and Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators. It's an excellent choice for creating a bird-friendly landscape while supporting native pollinator populations. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdPerfect for water-wise gardens, xeriscaping, and Mediterranean-style landscapes. Its low water requirements make it ideal for regions experiencing drought or for gardeners seeking to reduce water consumption. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftThe long-lasting, colorful flowers make excellent additions to fresh floral arrangements and are valued for their unique tubular shape and vibrant hues. [source]
Traditional Native American Uses
MedicinalCalifornia native tribes used Mimulus species traditionally; contains compounds studied for anti-inflammatory properties, though not widely used in modern herbalism. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe flowers are edible with a slightly sweet, citrus-like flavor and can be used as garnish for salads and beverages, though this is not the primary use of the plant. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental shrub, not typically harvested. Cut flowers can be brought indoors for arrangements; they have a long vase life. Collect seed pods after flowers fade for propagation if desired.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Sticky Monkeyflower' refers to the glandular hairs covering the foliage that produce a sticky, aromatic resin; this may help reduce water loss and deter certain pests
- 🌱 Mimulus aurantiacus is endemic to California and naturally occurs in chaparral and sage scrub communities, making it perfectly adapted to Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers
- 🌱 The genus Mimulus gets its name from the Latin 'mimus' (mime), because the flowers were thought to resemble a grinning monkey's face
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