Mimetanthe pilosa (Benth.) Greene

Genus Classification

Mimetanthe is a genus of flowering plants in the family Phrymaceae. This genus is monotypic, meaning it contains only one species: Mimetanthe pilosa, which also has the synonym Mimulus pilosus.

Common Names

This species goes by the common names false monkeyflower and downy mimetanthe.

Native Range

It is native to the western United States (specifically Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington State) and Baja California, where it grows in moist and disturbed habitat types.

Taxonomic Status

This plant differs enough from other monkeyflowers that it is either classified in its own separate monotypic genus Mimetanthe, or it may be kept classified within the genus Mimulus.

Growth Form and Size

It is an annual herb that grows to a maximum height of about 35 centimeters. Its entire body is densely coated in long hairs.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are arranged oppositely, are shaped like narrow or wide lances, and measure 1 to 3 centimeters long.

Flower Calyx Structure

The tubular base of the flower is wrapped in a calyx made up of sepals.

Flower Corolla Characteristics

The yellow flower corolla is under one centimeter long, is split into five rounded lobes at the flower's mouth, and often has red speckles in the corolla throat.