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Description
Diplacus Puniceus is a species of flowering plant in the family Phrymaceae. It is commonly known as the Red Monkeyflower or Red Mimulus due to the shape and color of its flowers. This plant is native to California and can be found growing in wet areas like stream banks and marshes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Phrymaceae |
| Genus | Diplacus |
| Species | Diplacus Puniceus |
Appearance
Diplacus Puniceus is an evergreen plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly serrated. The flowers of this plant are tubular and come in shades of red, pink, and orange. They have a distinctive shape that resembles a monkey’s face, which is where the common name Red Monkeyflower comes from.
Care Guide
To care for Diplacus Puniceus, it is important to keep the following factors in mind:- Water: This plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Diplacus Puniceus needs full sun to partial shade to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: This plant grows best in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Diplacus Puniceus is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves.- Aphids: These pests can cause curling and distortion of leaves.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on leaves.To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilization.
Habitat
Diplacus Puniceus is native to California and can be found growing in wet areas like stream banks and marshes. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Diplacus Puniceus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Diplacus Puniceus can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and is provided with adequate water and nutrients.
Q: Does Diplacus Puniceus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Diplacus Puniceus are attractive to bees and hummingbirds.
Q: Does Diplacus Puniceus have any medicinal uses?
A: Some Native American tribes used the leaves of Diplacus Puniceus to make a tea that was believed to have medicinal properties, including treating colds and respiratory issues.
Q: How often should Diplacus Puniceus be pruned?
A: Diplacus Puniceus can be pruned after flowering to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess.
Related Plants
– Diplacus Aurantiacus (Orange Bush Monkeyflower)- Diplacus Grandiflorus (Large-Flowered Monkeyflower)- Diplacus Longiflorus (Southern Monkeyflower)
References
– “Diplacus puniceus.” Calflora. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1373.- “Diplacus puniceus.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=DIPU.
