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Description
Erythranthe floribunda, commonly known as the bush monkeyflower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Phrymaceae. It is native to California, specifically in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges. This plant typically grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide, with dense clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Phrymaceae |
| Genus | Erythranthe |
Appearance
Erythranthe floribunda is a herbaceous perennial that forms a dense clump of green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a toothed margin. The flowers are arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stems and are bright yellow in color. Each flower has five petals that are fused at the base, forming a tube-like structure. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Erythranthe floribunda is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil and full to partial sun exposure. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Water
Water erythranthe floribunda regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during the summer months and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize erythranthe floribunda with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
Erythranthe floribunda prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy soils with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Erythranthe floribunda prefers full to partial sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade but may flower less in shady locations.
Hardiness Zones
Erythranthe floribunda is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erythranthe floribunda is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged.
Habitat
Erythranthe floribunda is native to California and is commonly found in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges. It grows in open sunny meadows, along stream banks, and in rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can erythranthe floribunda tolerate drought?
A: Erythranthe floribunda prefers moderate watering but can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: Does erythranthe floribunda attract pollinators?
A: Yes, erythranthe floribunda attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Is erythranthe floribunda toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that erythranthe floribunda is toxic to pets.
Q: How often should erythranthe floribunda be fertilized?
A: Erythranthe floribunda should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Related Plants
- Erythranthe guttata
- Erythranthe lewisii
- Erythranthe peregrina
References
- California Native Plant Society: https://www.cnps.org/gardening/plant-guides/bush-monkeyflower
- United States Department of Agriculture: https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERFL4
- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280905&isprofile=0&basic=erythranthe%20floribunda
