Monkey Flower
Mimulus guttatus, Figwort / Snapdragon Family ( Scrophulariaceae ), Monkey Flower. Also called: Seep Monkey Flower or Creek Monkeyflower.
An annual to sometimes perennial that grows in springs or along creeks. Many flowers during the months of spring - summer. Seep monkey flower is loved by hummingbirds and disliked by deer.
When the habitat of this monkeyflower dries out, the plants become a mass of brown hollow stems.
It's leaves were said to be eaten fresh by Native Americans. We do not recommend doing so.
Height: Height about 3 - 30 inches.
Flowers: The small yellow flowers have a lower lip ( 3 lobes ) much longer than the upper lip ( 2 lobes ). They reach about 1 1/2 inchs long. There are small red spots in the throat.
Blooming Time: March to October.
Leaves: Toothed, opposite, oval, leaves, up to 4 inches long with the lower ones stalked.
Seed Pod: Thorny, globose, walnut-sized 1-1/2 inches in diameter with many small, slender spines.
Elevation: 800 - 7500 Feet.
Habitat: Wet meadows along streams, seepage areas, near springs. Throughout North America.
Miscellaneous: Flowering Photos Taken In Castle Creek. April 25, 2005.
