Description

Monkeyflowers, in one form or another, are found throughout California. Most species are little annuals. The few perennial shrubs are also widespread, but are most common in our coastal mountains. The apricot-flowered Mimulus aurantiacus is most common. It is the local monkeyflower in Santa Clara County. Moving south, the species proliferate, displaying flowers in red and yellow. The southern monkeyflower grows south of the Transverse Ranges into Baja, Mexico. Like the other shrub monkeyflowers it prefers sunny, open areas and develops an open form, round to vase-shaped. It prefers dry conditions in the garden, and should be allowed to go dormant in the summer when small, nearly invisible, leaves will replace the spring growth. The ‘Sweet Susita’ selection was introduced by Moosa Creek Nursery in San Diego County.