Monkey Flower is a photograph by Robert Bales which was uploaded on March 13th, 2013.
Monkey Flower
The name monkey flower comes from the physical appearance of the flowers or from the name mimulus, stemming from a root word meaning mimic. In either... more
by Robert Bales
Title
Monkey Flower
Artist
Robert Bales
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
The name "monkey flower" comes from the physical appearance of the flowers or from the name mimulus, stemming from a root word meaning "mimic." In either case, the low-growing flowers are a good way to brighten up the shade.
Annual Flowers Image Gallery
Description of monkey flower: Mimulus forms neat, compact mounds seldom reaching over 10 inches in height, but spreading wider. The open-faced flowers are frequently painted with contrasting color markings on the background of yellow, pink, red, burgundy, and other warm-hued tones.
Growing monkey flower: Mimulus is not frost-tolerant, but prefers cool weather. It will thrive in moist soil, even in boggy conditions with occasional flooding; it will also bloom beautifully in dappled shade. Plant out after all danger of frost has passed, spacing plants 6 inches apart. Work a slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting for feeding all summer. Where keeping an even soil moisture level is a problem, a mulch is suggested. Deadheading spent flowers occasionally will improve their appearance.
Propagating monkey flower: By seed. Sow seeds indoors 10 to 12 days prior to planting outdoors. Do not cover the fine seeds. Germination takes 7 to 14 days at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Uses for monkey flower: Mimulus thrives nears ponds, pools, and streams. Grow it in shady borders and, because of its small stature, in front of a border or as an edging. Mimulus is also a perfect container plant. It will bloom indoors under cool conditions (and high indoor light).
Monkey flower related varieties: Calypso is a mixture of many colors of 2-inch flowers, both solids and marked bicolors. Malibu is another mixture in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Viva is a single variety with yellow flowers marked with bright red.
Uploaded
March 13th, 2013
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Comments (12)
Linda Phelps
L Excellent composition, At first I thought the background in the thumb nail was a little overwhelming. Now that I see the larger presentation, it looks better. The brilliant colors are delightful.
Phyllis Kaltenbach
Sorry, Robert! I am just a little dingy this morning - too much food over the week-end! I know your not Jim! Forgive me, please.
Robert Bales replied:
That is OK and I had a little chuckle over it!! I found it on the Oregon coast.
Phyllis Kaltenbach
Where did you find the "Monkey Flower", Jim? I don't believe I have ever seen one! Lovely! V/F
Rosanne Jordan
Beautiful colors in this image and love the focal point! What an interesting flower! v
Robert Bales replied:
Thanks Rosanne and yes they sure are very interesting! I would also like to thank you for the V!