Monardella purpurea, commonly known as Siskiyou monardella, is a perennial herb that thrives in the diverse ecological regions of northern California and southern Oregon, specifically within the Klamath Mountains. It is well-adapted to a range of habitats including rocky slopes, chaparral, open woodlands, and montane forests, often found in the unique serpentine soils of these areas. This plant typically grows to a modest height of up to 16 inches, featuring an erect purple stem that adds a touch of color to its surroundings. The inflorescence is a dense head of pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, providing a showy display that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Siskiyou monardella is valued for its vibrant flowers and its ability to thrive in challenging soil conditions, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and ecological restoration projects. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is drought-tolerant, preferring well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, it can be sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage. Gardeners should be aware that it may not compete well with more aggressive plants, so careful placement is recommended to ensure its visibility and health.CC BY-SA 4.0