Contents
1. Description
Erythranthe Cardinalis, also known as scarlet monkeyflower, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Phrymaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. This plant is native to North America and can commonly be found in moist areas such as stream banks, wetlands, and meadows.
2. Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Phrymaceae |
| Genus | Erythranthe |
3. Appearance
The Erythranthe Cardinalis plant has dark green leaves that are lance-shaped with serrated edges. The leaves can grow up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are tubular in shape with five petals that are bright red in color. They can grow up to 2 inches long and bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant produces seed pods that are small and round, containing numerous seeds.
4. Care Guide
Erythranthe Cardinalis plants require regular care to thrive. Here are some tips to ensure their optimal growth:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Erythranthe Cardinalis plants prefer partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
5. Common Pests & Diseases
Erythranthe Cardinalis plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to spider mites and powdery mildew. Treat these issues with an insecticidal soap or fungicide spray.
6. Habitat
Erythranthe Cardinalis plants are native to North America and can be found in moist areas such as stream banks, wetlands, and meadows. They prefer areas with partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
7. Question and Answer
Q: Is Erythranthe Cardinalis plant toxic to pets?
A: Erythranthe Cardinalis is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep your pets away from plants to avoid any potential harm.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Erythranthe Cardinalis plant?
A: Fertilize your Erythranthe Cardinalis plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Erythranthe Cardinalis in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Erythranthe Cardinalis in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives partial shade to full sun.
Q: How do I propagate Erythranthe Cardinalis?
A: Erythranthe Cardinalis can be propagated through division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or early summer.
9. Related Plants
- Erythranthe guttata
- Erythranthe lewisii
- Erythranthe lutea
10. References
- Bonnie L. Pendleton, “Erythranthe cardinalis,” in Fire Effects Information System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory, 2015.
- “Erythranthe Cardinalis,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 17, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b442.
- “Erythranthe cardinalis,” Plant Finder, Dave’s Garden, accessed August 17, 2021, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1178/.
