Southern Bush Monkeyflower
Diplacus longiflorus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Diplacus longiflorus is a drought-tolerant California native shrub producing bright orange tubular flowers from March through June. This Southern Bush Monkeyflower attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies to gardens.
Southern Bush Monkeyflower (Diplacus longiflorus) 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
CA
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Diplacus longiflorus (Southern Bush Monkeyflower) is a compact, evergreen shrub with vibrant tubular orange to salmon flowers that bloom profusely in spring through early summer. It features attractive glossy green foliage and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations with minimal water once established.
Growing Southern Bush Monkeyflower
Grow Southern Bush Monkeyflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern Bush Monkeyflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- Can look slightly sparse or leggy if not occasionally pruned
- May need deadheading to maintain tidy appearance after flowering
Wildlife value
This native shrub is a valuable nectar source for hummingbirds and butterflies, while also attracting native bees. The tubular flowers are particularly well-suited for hummingbird feeding.
Common questions
- When does Southern Bush Monkeyflower bloom?
- Diplacus longiflorus typically blooms from March through June, producing showy orange tubular flowers that are especially attractive to hummingbirds.
- What pollinators visit Diplacus longiflorus?
- Southern Bush Monkeyflower attracts hummingbirds as primary pollinators, along with various native bees and butterflies. The tubular orange flowers are particularly well-suited for hummingbird feeding.
- How much water does Southern Bush Monkeyflower need?
- This California native is drought-tolerant once established, requiring low water conditions. It performs well in dry gardens and can tolerate some supplemental watering but does not need regular irrigation.
- Is Southern Bush Monkeyflower toxic to dogs?
- Southern Bush Monkeyflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Southern Bush Monkeyflower toxic to cats?
- Southern Bush Monkeyflower is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Southern Bush Monkeyflower HOA-friendly?
- Southern Bush Monkeyflower 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 Southern Bush Monkeyflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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