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San Diego bush monkeyflower
Scientific Name: Diplacus aridus
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Orange Bush Monkey Flower (Diplacus aurantiacus)
The Orange Bush Monkey Flower, scientifically known as Diplacus aurantiacus, is a captivating plant species with several common names, including Sticky Monkey-flower and Bush Monkeyflower. Native to California, particularly the San Diego region, it offers a vibrant splash of color to the landscape.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions "Safe Plant Rating: Is San Diego Bush Monkeyflower safe for children? No Is San Diego Bush Monkeyflower safe for dogs? No," so caution should be used around children and pets.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Diplacus aurantiacus
- Common Names: Orange Bush Monkey Flower, Sticky Monkey-flower, Bush Monkeyflower, San Diego Bush Monkeyflower
- Family: Scrophulariaceae (though some classifications might place it in Phrymaceae)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Mimulus aridus (Abrams) A.L. Grant (for San Diego Bush Monkeyflower), Mimulus aurantiacus
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California, especially prevalent in San Diego County.
- Found in various habitats, including chaparral environments and coastal areas.
- Grows in inland foothills up to 3,000 feet in elevation.
- Also found from Los Angeles through Ventura Counties.
- Specific locations mentioned include central San Diego, the Santa Ana Mountains, and the Kaweah River area.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Generally a perennial shrub, sometimes described as a subshrub.
- Can reach heights of up to 6 feet in some cases.
- Drought-tolerant, able to grow on rock walls.
- Flowers exhibit a range of colors, including orange, red, and yellow.
- Some varieties can display several colors on a single bush.
- The stigma lobes of the flower are sensitive and close upon contact.
Quirky Facts
- Some varieties of the drought-tolerant monkey flower in San Diego County grow several colors on one bush.
- The stigma lobes of the bush monkey flower (Mimulus aurantiacus) close, a feature that has been the subject of Ph.D. theses at the University of California, San Diego.
Ecological Role
- A common bloom in chaparral ecosystems.
- Important to San Diego County Native Americans.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Observed to be visited by insects, as noted by an observation record.
- The sensitive stigma that closes upon contact is related to its pollination.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
- World Plants database contains species details.
The Orange Bush Monkey Flower thrives in Mediterranean climates and is valued for its drought tolerance and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for native plant gardens in Southern California.