Winged Monkeyflower

mimulus alatus

Also known as: ["Winged Monkeyflower","Alatus Monkeyflower"]

Family: Phrymaceae Genus: Mimulus Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous perennial plant native to North America, known for its showy yellow flowers and winged stems.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Phrymaceae
Genus: Mimulus
Botanical Name: Mimulus alatus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; heavy pruning annually after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light outdoors; protect from intense midday sun.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Soil

moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good water retention but fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growing season (spring and summer)

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mixture.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot to prevent overcrowding.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh potting mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture daily; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water consistently during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Mimulus alatus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Mimulus alatus can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Mimulus alatus may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Mimulus alatus, particularly root or stem rot, is often associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Mimulus alatus is not known to be toxic to cats under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for growing this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Mimulus alatus is not known to be toxic to dogs under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for growing this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Mimulus alatus is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions of exposure or ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

None

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Mimulus alatus?

A: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.

Q: Does Mimulus alatus attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Q: Can Mimulus alatus grow in full sun?

A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight if kept moist.

Quick Reference
Family: Phrymaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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