About
A clump-forming perennial, to around 60cm high, with square stems bearing pairs of highly aromatic, deeply veined green leaves that turn reddish in autumn. Flowerheads of pale pink tubular flowers spotted with dark pink, framed by purple bracts, are produced from mid to late summer.
About the genus
Monarda can be annuals or clump-forming herbaceous perennials with aromatic, ovate leaves and terminal whorls of 2-lipped, tubular flowers from summer to early autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Protect from excessive winter wet and do not allow to dry out in summer. Lift and divide every three years, to maintain airflow and vigour
PruningDeadhead regularly to encourage more flowers. Cut stems down to the ground in autumn, or leave seed heads for winter structure
PropagationPropagate by division in early spring, before new growth begins, or by basal softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and to leaf and bud eelworms
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to rust diseases; this species has some resistance to powdery mildews