Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana — Clump-forming, Erect stems | Fenn

Overview

Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana is a clump-forming, erect stems herbaceous perennial in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family, with aromatic, mid-green, lance-shaped or ovate leaves foliage. Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include mixed borders, herbaceous borders and prairie-style plantings.

About

Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial within the Monarda genus, known for its aromatic, mid-green lance-shaped or ovate leaves. It grows with erect stems and produces terminal clusters of tubular flowers with two lips from summer to early autumn. This plant thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained loam soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is ideal for mixed or herbaceous borders and prairie-style plantings, and can be propagated by division or basal softwood cuttings in early spring.

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: East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump-forming, Erect stems
Foliage: Aromatic, Mid-green, Lance-shaped or ovate leaves
Suggested uses: Mixed borders, Herbaceous borders, Prairie-style plantings

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana

Propagation: Division in early spring, Basal softwood cuttings
Pest resistance: Resistant to rabbits and deer
Disease resistance: Susceptible to powdery mildew

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana?

Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana need?

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

Is Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana hardy in the UK?

Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana 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 citriodora subsp. austromontana?

Division in early spring, Basal softwood cuttings.

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