The colors below indicate the kind of documentation available for this species
in the California counties where it occurs.
Cardinal Monkeyflower Mimulus cardinalis (Scrophulariaceae)
Cardinal Monkeyflower typically grows along streams and seepage areas. The shape of the corolla differs markedly from the other 100 or so species of Mimulus. The corolla is essentially two-lipped. The upper half arches forward instead of flaring like it does in so many other species. The lower lip is folded or reflexed and accentuated by yellow hairy ridges. Unlike many monkeyflowers which are pollinated by bees, this scarlet flowered perennial is pollinated by hummingbirds.
DISTRIBUTION: Seepage areas and moist to wet places along streams throughout the Calif. Floristic Province; < 2400 m.
