Overview
Monarda 'Blue Stocking' is a perennial herb in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family. Monarda 'Blue Stocking' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, cottage gardens and pollinator gardens.
About
A perennial herbaceous plant with aromatic, toothed leaves and striking blue to violet tubular flowers arranged in dense, rounded clusters.
About the genus
Monarda is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The genus is endemic to North America. Common names include bergamot, bee balm, horsemint, and oswego tea, the first being inspired by the fragrance of the leaves, which is reminiscent of bergamot orange.
Wikipedia contributors, "Monarda", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Monarda
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Monarda
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- neutral to slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist, well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Monarda 'Blue Stocking' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- borders, cottage gardens, pollinator gardens
- Fragrance
- aromatic, minty
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Monarda 'Blue Stocking'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade; benefits from deadheading to prolong flowering.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
- Propagation
- division, softwood cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Monarda 'Blue Stocking'?
Prefers moist, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade; benefits from deadheading to prolong flowering.
Where is the best place to plant Monarda 'Blue Stocking'?
Monarda 'Blue Stocking' prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Monarda 'Blue Stocking' need?
Monarda 'Blue Stocking' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.
How do I prune Monarda 'Blue Stocking'?
Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
Is Monarda 'Blue Stocking' hardy in the UK?
Monarda 'Blue Stocking' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Monarda 'Blue Stocking'?
Division, softwood cuttings.