The Story
Plant Bio
Mimulus x aurantiacus 'Cherry' is known for its vibrant orange flowers and is often appreciated for its ability to attract hummingbirds.
This cultivar is particularly noted for its compact growth habit and profuse blooming, making it suitable for container gardening.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
California
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are 2-3 inches tall, after the last frost.
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Pro Tip
Use a lightweight, organic potting mix and ensure good drainage for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to promote healthy, bushy growth
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to heavy frost or freezing temperatures
- Do not neglect pruning after flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cherry Monkey Flower questions
What zones can Cherry Monkey Flower grow in?
Cherry Monkey Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cherry Monkey Flower deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Cherry Monkey Flower, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Cherry Monkey Flower bloom?
Cherry Monkey Flower typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cherry Monkey Flower need full sun?
Cherry Monkey Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cherry Monkey Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cherry Monkey Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Mimulus to compare
Barton's Monkeyflower
Mimulus x lewisii-cardinalis
California Sunrise Seep Monkeyflower
Mimulus guttatus 'California Sunrise'
Seep Monkeyflower
Mimulus guttatus
Pamela Monkey Flower
Mimulus guttatus 'Pamela'
Roundleaf Monkeyflower
Mimulus aurantiacus 'Jelly Bean Fiesta Marigold'
Allegheny Monkey Flower
Mimulus ringens
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Cherry Monkey Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.