About
A vigorous, clump-forming perennial with aromatic dark green leaves and strong upright stems producing globe-shaped clusters of magenta purple flowers throughout the summer. Good resistance to powdery mildews. The leaves have a minty fragrance when crushed and can be used to make tea.
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 typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from excessive winter wet and do not allow soil to dry out in summer
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, especially in the spring
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, especially in hot, dry summers; This variety is said to be more mildew-resistant