Description

Red monardella is one of many native plants with a disjunct distribution. The main population is in the interior coastal mountains of southern California into Baja. Several hundred miles north another population occurs in the mountains of the Ventana Wilderness in Monterey County. During most of its life cycle, red monardella is inconspicuous, growing as a low mat of dark green, shiny leaves in sun to partial shade. In the summer it announces itself with disproportionately large flower clusters composed of multiple red tubular flowers. The display can last a month or more. Red monardella appreciates fairly well draining soil with some shade protection in inland sites. It also makes a great container plant, where its unique features can be highlighted.