Scarlet Monkeyflower
Erythranthe cardinalis
The scarlet monkeyflower is a spreading perennial herb most noticeable when in bloom. The fiery red-orange flowers have a deep funnel, apparently made of fused petals, the lower lip of which curls out around the funnel’s edge. The long, pollen-bearing stamens extend above the upper lip. The flowers, about 2 inches long, are born high above the downy, toothed leaves on long, sticky haired stems. The plant is composed of many mounding clusters of stems, reaching 2-3 ft when fully grown.
Basic Information
Member of Phrymaceae family
Close relative to the Yellow Monkeyflower, Erythranthe guttata
Occasional populations of yellow-flowered Erythranthe cardinalis (which lack anthocyanin pigments in their petals) are found in the wild
Habitat
Native to the West Coast, Southwestern United States and Baja California
Found primarily in moist, low-elevation areas, such as along stream banks and wetlands
Ecological Role
Blooms are a favorite of hummingbirds
Reproduction
Long bloom period, flowering continuously from spring to fall
The scarlet monkeyflower’s blooms and large nectar load attract hummingbirds
The hummingbirds' foreheads transfer the pollen between flowers
Alternative Names
Cardinal Monkey Flower, Crimson Monkeyflower
The scientific name is often interchangeable with Mimulus cardinalis
Historical Uses
The Karok used an infusion of the plant to wash newborn babies
The Kawaiisu consumed the tender stalks raw
Additional Information
Commonly cultivated for horticulture
In the area where it overlaps with its sister species, Erythranthe lewisii, reproductive isolation is maintained almost exclusively through pollinator preference
