Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' (Prairie Night Bee Balm) — Perennial

Overview

Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' is a perennial in the genus Monarda, part of the Lamiaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide. Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ornamental, pollinator garden and cut flower. 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 'Prairie Night' is a North American perennial in the Monarda genus that grows to about 1.5 m and spreads to roughly 1 m. The plant has minty, aromatic foliage and produces its main display between June and September. Planting in a sunny position will give the best flowering, while soils may range from sandy to loamy or clay provided they drain; it will also tolerate sites that remain moist so long as water does not sit around the roots. This cultivar is fully hardy to H7, so it will overwinter reliably across the UK; the USDA range 4–10 underlines its tolerance of both colder and warmer temperate climates. Allow about 1 m between plants to accommodate its mature spread and position specimens towards the middle or back of a mixed border where the height is useful. It suits pollinator gardens and ornamental beds and can be cut for summer vases during its June–September flowering period. The foliage releases a clear minty aroma when brushed or lightly crushed, which makes the plant particularly rewarding when sited beside paths or seating where the scent can be enjoyed.

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 'Prairie Night' size, habit and characteristics

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

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night'

Pruning: Cut back after flowering to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess
Propagation: Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night'?

Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' need?

Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' 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 'Prairie Night'?

Cut back after flowering to encourage bushiness and prevent legginess.

How big does Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' grow?

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

Is Monarda fistulosa 'Prairie Night' hardy in the UK?

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