1. Island Bush Monkeyflower – Diplacus parviflorus
(DIP-luh-cus par-vee-FOE=lee-us )
Family: Phrymaceae (Lopseed Family) ; formerly in Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
Native to: Island endemic - N. channel Islands & San Clemente Isl.; in canyons & on bluffs < 2000
ft elevation.
perennial sub-shrub
mature height: 2-3 ft.
mature width: 2-3 ft.
Semi-deciduous part-woody Monkeyflower. Leaves lance-shaped, medium to dark green, shiny with
prominent veins. Leaves sticky on hot days. Foliage an attractive contrast to flowers.
Growth characteristics:
Blooms in spring (Mar-July in most years). Flowers have typical ‘Monkeyflower’
shape with long corolla and fused petals. Flower color is a bright true red – extremely attractive and
showy. Looks somewhat like CA Fuschia (Epilobium canum) from a distance.
Blooms/fruits:
Uses in the garden: Makes a wonderful specimen plant in a Island Species garden along Catalina
Snapdragon and other Island plant. Excellent accent plant with its showy red blooms; plant with CA
Fuschia for almost year-round color. Good choice for dappled shade under trees or on a slope.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native Monkeyflowers or other perennials with red flowers.
Attracts: Excellent bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food. Hummingbirds love flowers!
Requirements:
Element
Sun
Soil
Water
Fertilizer
Other
Requirement
Best in dappled shade or afternoon shade.
Well-drained soils are best; any local pH.
Occasional summer water (Zone 1-2 to 2). Best with fall dry period.
None need, except in containers (1/2 strength).
Organic mulch recommended.
Pinch back (tip prune) growing stems in winter/spring to produce a fuller plant. Cut
back by about ½ in fall, being sure never to cut back into woody old growth (risk killing it).
Management:
Propagation: from seed: in spring; barely cover seeds
by cuttings: soft- or semi-soft wood
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 7, 8, 11-14, 16, 20, 21, 23, 24, 26, 28
2/29/11
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