Quick answer: Scarlet monkeyflower (Erythranthe cardinalis) is native to 7 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: Unknown, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Wet |
| Soil | Moist stream banks |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Oct |
| Height | 1-3 ft |
| Wildlife value | Hummingbirds |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Scarlet monkeyflower
Where is Scarlet monkeyflower native?
Scarlet monkeyflower (Erythranthe cardinalis) is native to Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah and Washington. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Scarlet monkeyflower bloom?
Scarlet monkeyflower blooms Apr-Oct. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Scarlet monkeyflower need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: Wet. Soil: Moist stream banks. Mature height: 1-3 ft.
Is Scarlet monkeyflower good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Hummingbirds.
Is Scarlet monkeyflower deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Scarlet monkeyflower is handles wet soil.
Where can I buy Scarlet monkeyflower?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Erythranthe cardinalis by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Scarlet monkeyflower.
- Rocky Mountain iris Iris missouriensis
- Seep monkeyflower Erythranthe guttata
- Purple sage (desert sage) Salvia dorrii
- Brittlebush Encelia farinosa
- California poppy Eschscholzia californica
- California fuchsia Epilobium canum
Also listed under
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