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Monkeyflower (Scarlet)

Erythranthe cardinalis

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Water

regular

Soil

moist, rich; near water

Size

1–3ft tall , 1–2ft wide

Bloom

Apr-Oct · scarlet red

Foliage

Semi-Deciduous

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

California and Oregon in moist habitats near streams

Large tubular scarlet red flowers with a 'monkey face' pattern

Needs consistent moisture; great near water features; long bloom season

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your scarlet monkeyflower in part shade, though it can tolerate full sun - just know it prefers afternoon shade in the Bay Area heat. It thrives in moist soil and actually tolerates a range of drainage conditions (sandy, clay, or even slow-draining soil), so don't stress about amending heavily; the key is keeping moisture consistent, especially near water features or in naturally wet areas of your garden. Space plants 1–2 feet apart since they spread and can reach 1–3 feet tall. Plant in spring for best establishment.

After Planting

Keep the soil moist through your first summer after planting; weekly watering is typically needed during establishment, but adjust based on rainfall and your specific soil type. Once established, you can back off slightly, but this is a plant that wants consistent moisture - it's not drought-tolerant, so don't let it fully dry out. The biggest mistake people make is treating it like a Mediterranean plant and letting it dry between waterings; remember it's a wetland native. Expect blooms from April through October, and the plant is semi-deciduous, so some leaf drop in winter is normal.

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