Diplacus Leptaleus

Description

Diplacus Leptaleus, commonly known as the Slender Monkeyflower, is a native California plant belonging to the family Phrymaceae. This flowering plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, producing bright yellow or orange flowers during the summer months. The Slender Monkeyflower is an excellent choice for gardens, as it attracts hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Slender Monkeyflower has a slender, upright growth habit with lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces tubular, trumpet-shaped flowers that are typically 1 inch long and come in shades of yellow or orange. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stems and have a sweet fragrance. The Slender Monkeyflower blooms from early summer to fall.

Care Guide

The Slender Monkeyflower requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The Slender Monkeyflower thrives in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The Slender Monkeyflower is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Slender Monkeyflower is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues to look out for:

• Aphids: These pests can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Spider Mites: These pests can cause discoloration of leaves and webbing. Use neem oil to control them.
• Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Ensure the soil is well-drained and reduce watering during the winter months.

Habitat

The Slender Monkeyflower is native to California and can be found growing in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and woodland habitats. The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can the Slender Monkeyflower tolerate drought?
• A: The plant can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moderate watering.
• Q: How often should I fertilize the Slender Monkeyflower?
• A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: What is the ideal pH range for the Slender Monkeyflower?
• A: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Q: Is the Slender Monkeyflower invasive?
• A: No, the plant is not invasive.

Related Plants

• Diplacus aurantiacus
• Diplacus bigelovii
• Diplacus longiflorus
• Diplacus puniceus
• Diplacus rutilus

References

• Calflora. (n.d.). Diplacus leptaleus. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1915
• California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Diplacus leptaleus. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Diplacus-leptaleus-()
• UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County. (n.d.). Diplacus leptaleus. Retrieved from https://sonomamg.ucanr.edu/The_Kitchen_Garden/Plant_of_the_Month/Diplacus_leptaleus/