Because of the range of mating and pollination systems in Mimulus, the genus has become a model system for studying floral evolution. Interest in Mimulus has extended for over 50 years, providing much background genetic information for the current focus of studies. Here, I will discuss the major findings of pre PCR mostly quantitative genetic methodologies to quantify important genetic parameters that contribute to our understanding of mating and floral evolution. I will conclude by comparing these earlier findings with more recent molecular marker assisted approaches and suggesting further areas of research.

Key words: Floral Traits, Mating System, Mimulus, Quantitative Genetics, Scrophulariaceae