Overview
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' is a perennial in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Ontario.
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 4.0 — Monarda
In the garden
Originating from Ontario, Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' is a perennial with aromatic, deciduous leaves and a clear summer display between June and September. Its scent is a distinctive feature, releasing when foliage is handled, and the plant is suited to temperate conditions where it can remain outdoors year round. Choose a sunny site and any reasonably fertile soil type — sandy, loamy or clay will all do — provided the soil stays moist but drains freely. Positioning in full sun helps the plant to flower well; it is rated H7 for UK hardiness, meaning it tolerates typical British winters, and corresponds to USDA zones 4–10 for broader climate context. Use Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' in summer borders or informal perennial groups where the fragrance can be appreciated at close range, such as beside a path or seating area. Give plants enough airflow to reduce prolonged damp around stems and expect aromatic foliage throughout the growing season when leaves are brushed or crushed.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Monarda
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Native to
- Ontario
- Fragrance
- Yes
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet'?
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' prefers full sun.
What soil does Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' need?
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' hardy in the UK?
Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
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More in the Monarda genus
- Monarda didymabergamot
- Monarda didyma 'Adam'Crimson Beebalm
- Monarda didyma 'Croftway Pink'Crimson Beebalm
- Monarda didyma 'Prairie Glow'Crimson Beebalm
- Monarda fistulosaAmerican wild bergamot
- Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica'Magnifica bee balm
- Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night'Prairie Night Bee Balm
- Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen')Snow Maiden Bee Balm