Overview

Monarda bradburiana is a upright, clump-forming perennial in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family, with aromatic, dark green foliage. Monarda bradburiana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include beds, borders, herb gardens and planters. It is native to southeastern United States.

About

Monarda bradburiana, the eastern beebalm or Bradbury's beebalm, is a species of perennial flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae, that is native to much of the southeastern United States.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Monarda bradburiana

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 4.0Monarda

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Monarda

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Monarda bradburiana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
perennial
Habit
Upright, Clump-forming
Foliage
Aromatic, Dark green
Suggested uses
Beds, Borders, Herb gardens, Planters
Native to
southeastern United States
Fragrance
aromatic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Monarda bradburiana

Propagation
Division every 2-3 years
Pest resistance
Susceptible to powdery mildew
Disease resistance
Resistant to powdery mildew in some cultivars

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Monarda bradburiana?

Monarda bradburiana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Monarda bradburiana need?

Monarda bradburiana grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Monarda bradburiana hardy in the UK?

Monarda bradburiana has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Monarda bradburiana?

Division every 2-3 years.

More in the Monarda genus

Browse all Monarda