Scarlet Monardella
Monardella macrantha
Also listed as Madronella macrantha
Also known as Red Monardella, Hummingbird Monardella
Climate Match for your location
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A compact California native perennial with tubular scarlet flowers that attract hummingbirds over a long season. Hardy and drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in dry, sunny locations with minimal water.
Why grow it
Monardella macrantha offers a compact growth habit and extended bloom period compared to many native California mints, making it useful for small spaces and continuous hummingbird attraction. Its proven drought tolerance and minimal fertility requirements suit low-input gardens and restoration plantings where water conservation is a priority. The tubular flowers and ornamental foliage provide season-long visual interest in xeric perennial borders.
Watch out for
This species prefers sharply draining soil and may decline in heavy clay or areas with poor drainage, particularly in cooler climates. Overwatering or mulching heavily can encourage root rot, so site placement and soil amendment should prioritize air circulation around the base.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California (Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains)
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Notable Cultivars
Marion Sampson is a long-blooming cultivar known for exceptionally large scarlet flowers and extended flowering season, making it a superior ornamental selection for hummingbird gardens.
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A compact California native perennial with tubular scarlet flowers that attract hummingbirds over a long season. Hardy and drought-tolerant once established, it thrives in dry, sunny locations with minimal water.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Scarlet Monardella grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Monardella macrantha offers a compact growth habit and extended bloom period compared to many native California mints, making it useful for small spaces and continuous hummingbird attraction. Its proven drought tolerance and minimal fertility requirements suit low-input gardens and restoration plantings where water conservation is a priority. The tubular flowers and ornamental foliage provide season-long visual interest in xeric perennial borders.
Watch out for
This species prefers sharply draining soil and may decline in heavy clay or areas with poor drainage, particularly in cooler climates. Overwatering or mulching heavily can encourage root rot, so site placement and soil amendment should prioritize air circulation around the base.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California (Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains)
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar herbs you might consider:
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Companion Planting
Plants well with
Notable Cultivars
Marion Sampson is a long-blooming cultivar known for exceptionally large scarlet flowers and extended flowering season, making it a superior ornamental selection for hummingbird gardens.