Sharp-wing Monkey-flower
Mimulus alatus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Mimulus alatus (Sharp-wing Monkey-flower) is a native forb blooming June through August across eastern and central United States. This moisture-loving wildflower thrives in partial shade and attracts bees and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Sharp-wing Monkey-flower as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sharp-wing monkey-flower is a native wildflower that produces small, tubular blooms in shades of blue to purple throughout the summer months. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in partial shade and forms neat, compact clumps that work well in garden borders and naturalized areas.
Growing Sharp-wing Monkey-flower
Grow Sharp-wing Monkey-flower in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sharp-wing Monkey-flower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- May look sparse or weedy to unfamiliar neighbors
- Requires consistent moisture which can be challenging in maintained landscapes
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are particularly attractive to native bees and provide nectar for various butterfly species throughout the summer blooming period.
Common questions
- When does Mimulus alatus bloom?
- Sharp-wing Monkey-flower blooms from June through August, producing small purple flowers that attract pollinators.
- What growing conditions does Sharp-wing Monkey-flower prefer?
- Mimulus alatus grows best in partial shade to shade with medium to high moisture levels. It naturally occurs in wet areas like stream banks and marshes.
- Which pollinators visit Sharp-wing Monkey-flower?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Mimulus alatus, attracted to its tubular purple flowers during summer months.
- Where is Mimulus alatus native?
- Sharp-wing Monkey-flower is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Connecticut south to Florida and west to Texas, Kansas, and Iowa.
- Is Sharp-wing Monkey-flower toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Sharp-wing Monkey-flower as toxic to livestock.
- Is Sharp-wing Monkey-flower HOA-friendly?
- Sharp-wing Monkey-flower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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 Sharp-wing Monkey-flower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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