Family: Schrophulariaceae
Common Name: Monkey Flower, Musk

There are about 150 species in this genus of annual or perennial plants and shrubs, found in most temperate zones of the world, though widespread in North America. The trmpet-like flowers come in many colours, including yellow, orange, red, wine purple, copper and white, with spots of contrasting shades. The smaller types make useful border plants and also work well in verandah boxes or hanging baskets. Some species thrive in boggy or permanently wet soils. The numerous, named hybrids are normally grown as summer bedding plants.

Species

M. aurantiacus, zone 8, from North America, is a compact, evergreen, perennial shrub, to 1 m (3 ft), grown for its attractive, yellowish orange flowers, with prominent apricot lips.

M. cupreus, zone 8, an annual, 20-30 cm (8-12 in) high, has yellow to bright copper flowers.

M. fremontii, zone 9, an annual, to 20 cm (8 in), produces crimson to purple flowers.

M. guttatus, zone 6, is a perennial, 30-45 cm (12-18 in) high, with yellow flowers spotted in red.

M. moschatus, monkey musk, zone 7, is a prickly, hairy perennial, to 30 cm (12 in), with yellow flowers.

M. ringens, zone 3, a perennial which grows to around 1 m (3 ft), has violet to pink or white flowers. Named hybrids of numerous species (M. x hybridus, zone 6) are available.

Cultivation

The majority of mimulus enjoy a moisture-retentive soil which contains plenty of humus. It should not be allowed to dry out at any time. They grow equally well in either full sun or dappled shade. Propagate from seed sown in spring under glass, especially for the summer bedding types. Germinate at 13°C (57°F). Perennials can be divided in spring or raised from softwood cuttings in summer.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.