Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' (Magnifica bee balm) — Perennial herbaceous

Overview

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide. Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ornamental and pollinator garden. It is native to North America.

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

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' is a herbaceous perennial from North America that forms upright clumps to roughly 1.5 m tall and about 1 m across. The species belongs to the Monarda genus and is valued for its minty, aromatic foliage and long summer flowering period, which runs from June to September in the UK. Place the plant in full sun where it will receive the most light; it suits a range of soil textures — sandy, loamy or clay — as long as drainage is adequate or the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. The variety is rated H7 for UK hardiness, meaning it is fully hardy and will tolerate typical UK winter conditions without protection. Exposure should be full sun to achieve the best flower production. Use Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' as an ornamental specimen or within a pollinator-focused border: its height makes it suitable towards the middle or rear of a mixed border and it performs well close to paths or seating where the minty aroma can be appreciated. Flowering from June to September provides a steady summer nectar source for bees, hoverflies and other pollinators.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Monarda

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial herbaceous
Height: 1.5 m
Spread: 1 m
Suggested uses: Ornamental, Pollinator garden
Native to: North America
Fragrance: Minty, aromatic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates sandy to clay soils, requires full sun for best flowering
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
Propagation: Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica'?

Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates sandy to clay soils, requires full sun for best flowering.

Where is the best place to plant Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica'?

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' need?

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.

How big does Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' grow?

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' reaches a height of 1.5 m and a spread of 1 m.

Is Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' hardy in the UK?

Monarda fistulosa 'Magnifica' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.