Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’

Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’: A Golden Gem for the Garden

Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’, also known as Jelly Bean Gold Monkeyflower or older name Mimulus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ , is a delightful and compact shrubby perennial that adds a splash of vibrant golden color to gardens and landscapes. This cultivar is renowned for its profuse flowering, clean foliage, and adaptability to various garden conditions.

Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ belongs to the genus Diplacus, which is part of the Phrymaceae family. This family, formerly placed in Scrophulariaceae, includes a variety of plants commonly referred to as Monkeyflowers. The genus Diplacus includes species with parietal placentation and sessile flowers. This genus was redefined in a 2012 restructuring of the Mimuleae tribe, which saw many species reclassified based on DNA evidence.

The ‘Jelly Bean’ series, including ‘Jelly Bean Gold’, was developed by Richard Persoff in 2009. This series was bred for its compact habit, prolific flowering, and clean, glossy foliage. These plants are particularly suited to coastal gardens and other well-drained, sunny locations.

Description

Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ is a small, upright, rounded shrub that grows to a height of 1-2 feet with a similar spread. It features dark green, glossy leaves and large, ruffled, golden-orange flowers that bloom nearly year-round in coastal gardens. The flowers are notable for their size, being larger than those of the species and the largest among the ‘Jelly Bean’ series.

How to grow Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’:

Light Requirements: Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ thrives in full sun to light shade. In coastal areas, it can tolerate full sun, while in hotter inland areas, it benefits from some afternoon shade.

Watering: This plant has low water requirements once established. It is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly, especially during its summer dormancy period. Overwatering during dormancy can lead to root rot and other issues.

Soil: Plant in well-drained soil, preferably sandy or loamy. The soil should be fast-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant.

Fertilization: After the plants are established, fertilize sparingly. Too much fertilizer can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Pruning: Pruning is generally not necessary, but light pruning can help maintain a compact shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning after flowering can also encourage a more prolific bloom in the following season.

Temperature and Humidity: Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ is hardy to about 20 degrees F (-6.7 degrees C). It is well-suited to coastal climates and can tolerate extreme summer heat. In colder regions, protection from frost is recommended.

Propagation

Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ can be propagated through seeds or cuttings:

Seed Propagation:

1. Collect seeds from mature fruits once they have dried.
2. Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed mix.
3. Keep the soil moist and place the container in a bright, warm location.
4. Germination typically occurs within a few weeks.

Cuttings:

1. Take semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy, mature plants in late spring or early summer.
2. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone.
3. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
4. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment, and water them regularly to maintain moisture.
5. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and new growth will indicate successful rooting.

Special Features and Challenges

Special Features: Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ is valued for its easy care, fast growth, and striking golden flowers. It is a great choice for coastal gardens, rock gardens, and container planting. The plant is also summer deciduous, meaning it may enter a dormant period during the hottest months, conserving energy and water.

Challenges: One common mistake gardeners make with this plant is overwatering during its summer dormancy, mistaking it for water stress. It’s essential to allow the plant to follow its natural cycle, minimizing water during dormancy.

In conclusion, Diplacus ‘Jelly Bean Gold’ is a charming and resilient addition to any garden. With its vibrant blooms, glossy foliage, and minimal maintenance requirements, it brings year-round beauty and color to a variety of garden settings. Whether used as a border accent, container plant, or part of a rock garden, this compact monkeyflower is sure to delight gardeners and pollinators alike.