Description
Mimulus ringens, commonly called Allegheny monkey flower or square-stemmed monkey flower, is a native perennial forb (wildflower) which typically occurs in swampy areas, wet meadows, pond/streambanks and low woods.
Wildlife notes
Bumblebees visit Allegheny monkey flower for nectar. They are one of the few insects that are strong enough to force their way into the partially closed throat of the corolla. The caterpillars of the moth, Chalcedony Midget, and caterpillars of the butterfly, Buckeye, feed on the foliage. Little appears to be known about this plant’s ecological relationships with vertebrate animals, although it is sometimes large enough to provide protective cover in wetlands.
Forage notes
No information available at this time. Please let us know if you have any person experience with this plant.
Landscaping notes
Grow in moist to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Best in part shade. Naturalizes in optimum growing conditions by both self-seeding and creeping rhizomes. Flowers bloom throughout the summer. Best naturalized in moist to wet soils in water gardens, bog gardens, wet meadows, water margins or low spots. May be grown in moist soils in borders as long as soils do not dry out. The size of a plant is strongly influenced by moisture conditions and soil fertility.
Restoration notes
Habitats include floodplain and bottomland forests (particularly in partially sunny areas), swamps, seeps, muddy borders of small streams or ponds, drainage ditches, prairie swales, and wet meadows. It typically occurs in areas that are prone to occasional flooding or standing water.
This species is commonly used in the following mixes: Wet Meadow Mix
Videos About This Plant
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