Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') (Snow Maiden Bee Balm) — Perennial

Overview

Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') 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 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') 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 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') is a North American perennial in the mint family that forms upright clumps to around 1.5 m, with a typical spread of about 1 m. It carries a mild, minty fragrance and is listed for ornamental and pollinator uses. Flowering occurs from June to September, providing a sustained display through summer into early autumn. Plant it in a sunny position; the cultivar requires full sun and performs on sandy, loamy or clay soils provided drainage is adequate or the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. It is fully hardy in UK gardens (H7) and corresponds roughly to USDA zones 4–10, so it will tolerate cold winters in most British locations. Allow approximately 1 m between plants to accommodate the spread and encourage air movement around the crowns. Where space allows, use Snow Maiden Bee Balm in herbaceous borders, pollinator areas or informal meadow edges where its height can be shown to advantage without shading lower neighbours. The long June–September flowering season supplies nectar for pollinating insects across the summer months.

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 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') size, habit and characteristics

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

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen')

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Propagation: Division, Seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen')?

Prefers well-drained soil; deadhead spent flowers to encourage blooming.

Where is the best place to plant Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen')?

Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') need?

Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') 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 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen')?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

How big does Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') grow?

Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') reaches a height of 1.5 m and a spread of 1 m.

Is Monarda fistulosa 'Snow Maiden' ('Schneewittchen') hardy in the UK?

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