Red Monkswort: A Hardy Non-Native Wildflower for Naturalized Gardens
Meet red monkswort (Nonea vesicaria), a charming little wildflower that’s made itself at home in parts of North America despite its foreign origins. This unassuming annual or biennial forb might not win any beauty contests, but it has a quiet appeal that’s perfect for gardeners looking to add some rustic charm to their landscapes.
What Is Red Monkswort?
Red monkswort is a herbaceous plant belonging to the borage family. Don’t let the red in its name fool you – this plant actually produces small purple to blue flowers that bloom along hairy stems. As an annual or biennial, it completes its life cycle in one to two years, often self-seeding to maintain its presence in the garden.
Originally from the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe and Asia, red monkswort has established itself as a non-native species that reproduces spontaneously in the wild across parts of Canada and the United States.
Where Does It Grow?
In North America, you’ll find red monkswort growing in Alberta, New York, and Pennsylvania. While its distribution is currently limited to these areas, it has shown the ability to persist and spread naturally in suitable habitats.
Garden Appeal and Uses
Red monkswort isn’t going to be the star of your flower border, but it has its place in the right setting. Here’s what makes it interesting:
- Delicate purple-blue flowers that attract bees and small pollinators
- Hairy, textured foliage that adds visual interest
- Self-seeding habit that fills in naturalized areas
- Tolerance for poor, disturbed soils where other plants struggle
This plant works best in cottage gardens, meadow plantings, or areas where you want a more wild, naturalized look. It’s particularly useful for filling in gaps in disturbed soil areas or creating habitat in less formal garden spaces.
Growing Conditions and Care
One of red monkswort’s best qualities is its easygoing nature. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-8 and adapts to various conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained soils, tolerates poor and disturbed ground
- Water: Moderate moisture, drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance: Minimal care required
As a self-seeding annual or biennial, red monkswort pretty much takes care of itself. Simply allow some plants to go to seed, and you’ll likely see new plants appear the following season.
Should You Plant Red Monkswort?
While red monkswort isn’t currently listed as invasive or problematic, it’s worth considering that this is a non-native species. If you’re drawn to its humble charm, you might want to grow it in contained areas or consider native alternatives that provide similar benefits.
Some excellent native alternatives that offer comparable appeal include:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) for purple flowers and pollinator appeal
- Blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium species) for delicate blue blooms
- Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis) for blue flower spikes in naturalized settings
If you do choose to grow red monkswort, consider it for areas where you want low-maintenance color and don’t mind a more casual, self-seeding approach to gardening. Just keep an eye on its spread and be prepared to manage it if it becomes too enthusiastic in your particular location.
Remember, the best garden is one that works with your local ecosystem while still bringing you joy. Whether you choose red monkswort or opt for native alternatives, the key is creating spaces that support both your gardening goals and local wildlife.
