Monkey Flower
Mimulus geyeri

Family: Scrophulariaceae

What it is like

Mimulus geyeri is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Very wet places and shallow water, especially in calcareous areas.

Western N. America - Manitoba to Michigan and Montana.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Leaves and young shoots - raw. A slightly bitter flavour, they can be used as part of a mixed salad.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Miscellany: Various medicinal actions that need more clarification.

Other

Rating:

The plant, growing in the wild, is seen as an indicator of surface water.

Miscellany: A rag-bag of items that are difficult to categorise.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers rather moist places such as damp borders, margins of streams and boggy spots. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Thrives in full sun so long as the soil does not dry out, otherwise it is best grown in partial shade.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only lightly cover the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. If you have sufficient seed it can also be sown in situ in late spring after the last expected frosts. Division in spring. Very easy, large divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer. Cuttings of softwood, 5cm long in spring or summer.

Best place to grow: Pond; Bog Garden;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Wet, water

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

M. glabratus. HBK.