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Description
Diplacus Pulchellus, commonly known as the yellow monkeyflower, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Phrymaceae family. It is native to western North America, particularly California and Oregon. This attractive plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 60cm in height and spreads by rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Phrymaceae |
| Genus | Diplacus |
| Species | Pulchellus |
Appearance
The yellow monkeyflower has bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are 1-2cm long and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The leaves of this plant are narrow and lance-shaped, with a toothed margin. The foliage is green and can vary from light to dark shades. The plant spreads by rhizomes and forms clumps of stems and leaves.
Care Guide
The yellow monkeyflower is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to keep it healthy:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but make sure that the soil does not become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The yellow monkeyflower is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The yellow monkeyflower can be affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The yellow monkeyflower is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the yellow monkeyflower a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow monkeyflower is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can the yellow monkeyflower be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the yellow monkeyflower can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my yellow monkeyflower?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the best way to propagate the yellow monkeyflower?
A: The plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Diplacus aurantiacus
- Diplacus bigelovii
- Diplacus fremontii
- Diplacus glutinosus
- Diplacus longiflorus
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DIPU2
- https://calscape.org/Diplacus-pulchellus-()
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/diplacus_pulchellus.shtml
