Skip to main content

Scarlet Monkeyflower

Mimulus cardinalis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Mimulus cardinalis produces bright red tubular flowers from June through September, attracting hummingbirds to wet areas and streambanks in Colorado and western North America.

Scarlet Monkeyflower (Mimulus cardinalis)
Photo: (c) Roberto Daniel Avila, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Roberto Daniel Avila

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Scarlet Monkeyflower as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

CO

Pollinators

hummingbirds

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast RangeSierra NevadaCentral California ValleySouthern California MountainsCentral Basin and RangeMojave Basin and RangeSonoran Basin and Range

Cardinal monkey flower produces brilliant red tubular blooms from June through September, creating a striking display in moist garden areas. This plant thrives in partial sun with consistent water and forms neat clumps 1-3 feet tall. The vibrant flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds with their tubular shape and bright color.

Growing Scarlet Monkeyflower

Grow Scarlet Monkeyflower in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Scarlet Monkeyflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • High water needs conflict with xeriscape expectations
  • May appear too wild or natural for formal landscapes
  • Requires consistent moisture maintenance

Wildlife value

Primarily attracts hummingbirds with its specialized red tubular flowers. Also supports other pollinators including bees and butterflies.

Common questions

When does Scarlet Monkeyflower bloom?
Mimulus cardinalis blooms from June through September, producing vibrant red tubular flowers that are particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
What pollinators visit Scarlet Monkeyflower?
Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators of Mimulus cardinalis, drawn to its bright red tubular flowers that are perfectly shaped for their long beaks and tongues.
Where does Mimulus cardinalis grow naturally?
Scarlet Monkeyflower is native to western North America, including Colorado, where it typically grows along streams, seeps, and other consistently moist areas.
What growing conditions does Scarlet Monkeyflower need?
Mimulus cardinalis requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for water gardens and streamside plantings.
Is Scarlet Monkeyflower toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Scarlet Monkeyflower as toxic to livestock.
Is Scarlet Monkeyflower HOA-friendly?
Scarlet Monkeyflower takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

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

Add this plant to your garden
iPhone appAndroid app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz