Monardella macrantha
Marian Sampson

Long scarlet-orange flower tubes flare above a low mat of dark green leaves, giving ‘Marian Sampson’ a remarkable amount of color for such a small plant. The clustered blooms look almost oversized against the foliage, and their slender shape makes them a natural destination for hummingbirds. This selection of a California native brings a mountain-garden character to spaces where a larger perennial would overwhelm its neighbors.

Expect a spreading mound about 4–6 inches tall and 8–12 inches wide, with aromatic foliage that can remain partly evergreen in suitable conditions. Flowers arrive in late spring and may continue into summer. Set it between rocks, near the front of a raised bed, or in a container with excellent drainage, where its low habit stays visible. It is a distinctive small-scale choice among our California native perennials, though individual plants can be short-lived.

Give ‘Marian Sampson’ morning sun or partial sun, with protection from hot afternoon exposure. Sharp drainage is essential: sandy or gravelly soil suits it, while heavy clay, soggy winter conditions, and bark mulch around the crown do not. Water to establish, then irrigate sparingly as needed. USDA Zones 6–9 provide a conservative growing range. In spring, carefully trim away dead stems by hand rather than cutting through healthy growth.

We guarantee that the plants we sell are healthy and viable at the time they leave our care.

If a plant arrives in substandard condition, please take clear photographs and contact us within 48 hours of delivery. To ensure eligibility under this guarantee, we strongly encourage you to open and unpack your shipment immediately upon delivery and inspect the plants thoroughly.

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$14.99 flat rate for up to 6 plants is for standard FedEx/UPS Ground shipping to eligible states only. $19.99 for up to 12 plants. Plants being shipped to the following states are sent via Express Mail to help ensure they arrive quickly and healthy. 

(AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VT, VA, WV)
(list of states subject to change seasonally due to extreme heat or cold conditions)

We cannot ship Annie's Annuals plants to P.O. boxes or outside the continental U.S.

Individual plants are shipped in 4" pots and we ship in boxes of 4, 6, 8, or 12 plants per box.

For more details, read our full Ordering and Shipping Policies

Get your plants off to a strong start with our care guide.

Download the Plant Care Guide (PDF)