About
A clump-forming perennial to around 50cm tall with aromatic, toothed leaves and in summer, whorled clusters ofdeep pinkish-red flowers.
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
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPrairie planting, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required, though deadheading may prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by division in spring, before new growth begins, or by basal softwood cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially in hot, dry summers; this cultivar is said to be mildew-resistant