How much sun does Calico Monkeyflower need?

Calico Monkeyflower grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Calico Monkeyflower bloom?

Calico Monkeyflower blooms in March, April, May, and June.

Where is Calico Monkeyflower native?

Calico Monkeyflower (Diplacus pictus) is native to CA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Calico Monkeyflower attract?

Calico Monkeyflower draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Is Calico Monkeyflower HOA-friendly?

Calico Monkeyflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Calico Monkeyflower

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Diplacus pictus

Last reviewed: July 2026

Calico Monkeyflower (Diplacus pictus) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun

Native to

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, hummingbirds

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains

Diplacus pictus (formerly Mimulus pictus) is a charming native shrub with colorful, tubular flowers that bloom spring through early summer. It forms a compact mound 1-3 feet tall and wide with evergreen foliage. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Calico Monkeyflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.

Can look slightly leggy if not occasionally pruned
May self-seed, requiring management in formal landscapes

Wildlife value

This plant provides significant ecological value by attracting multiple pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its tubular flowers.

Common questions

How much sun does Calico Monkeyflower need?: Calico Monkeyflower grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Calico Monkeyflower bloom?: Calico Monkeyflower blooms in March, April, May, and June.
Where is Calico Monkeyflower native?: Calico Monkeyflower (Diplacus pictus) is native to CA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Calico Monkeyflower toxic to dogs?: Calico Monkeyflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
Is Calico Monkeyflower toxic to cats?: Calico Monkeyflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
What pollinators does Calico Monkeyflower attract?: Calico Monkeyflower draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Is Calico Monkeyflower HOA-friendly?: Calico Monkeyflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Calico Monkeyflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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