About
A compact, clump-forming perennial, to 60cm tall, with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that smell of lemons when crushed. Tiers of soft mauve-lilac flowers are borne in summer on upright stems.
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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
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
PruningDeadhead regularly then cut stems down to the ground in autumn
PropagationPropagate by division
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceProne to powdery mildews