About
Monarda didyma, bergamot or bee balm, is a bushy, clump-forming perennial to 90 cm with erect stems bearing aromatic, lance-shaped to ovate, mid-green leaves. In mid- to late summer it produces dense, terminal whorls of two-lipped, scarlet or pink flowers to 4 cm long � highly attractive to bees and butterflies. An indispensable and ornamental border perennial.
About the genus
Monarda, the bergamots or bee balms, are clump-forming herbaceous perennials and annuals with aromatic, ovate leaves and terminal whorls of two-lipped, tubular flowers in red, pink, purple or white from summer to early autumn. Excellent bee and butterfly plants for sunny borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
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
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPrairie planting, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toN America
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 seed or division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews