Rattan's monkeyflower facts for kids

Diplacus rattanii is a type of monkeyflower often called Rattan's monkeyflower. It's a small plant with pretty magenta flowers. This special plant is known for growing in specific parts of California.

Where Does Rattan's Monkeyflower Grow?

Rattan's monkeyflower is special because it only grows in California. This means it is "endemic" to California. You can find it in the northern and central parts of California's Coast Ranges.

This plant likes to grow in open areas. It also grows in places that have been changed, like rocky spots. Sometimes, it even pops up in areas that have recently had a wildfire.

What Does Rattan's Monkeyflower Look Like?

Rattan's monkeyflower is an "annual herb." This means it lives for only one growing season. It is quite small, usually growing between 1 and 18 centimeters tall. That's about as tall as a small ruler.

Its leaves are oval-shaped and grow in pairs opposite each other on the stem. They can be up to 4.6 centimeters long. The newer leaves often feel a bit hairy.

The flowers are tiny, less than a centimeter long. They have a tube-like base. This base is covered by a swollen, ribbed cup made of hairy parts called sepals. The flowers are usually a bright magenta color. They often have yellow spots inside, near the opening.