About
Monarda didyma (duplicate record � see main entry at 7481). Monarda didyma, bergamot, is a bushy perennial with aromatic foliage and showy, two-lipped flowers in red or pink beloved by bees and butterflies.
About the genus
Monarda, the bergamots or bee balms, are clump-forming herbaceous perennials and annuals with aromatic, ovate leaves and terminal whorls of two-lipped, tubular flowers in red, pink, purple or white from summer to early autumn. Excellent bee and butterfly plants for sunny borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitClimbing, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHanging basket, Houseplants, Sub-tropical
Native toTropical America
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 11192,monstera-deliciosa-f,Monstera deliciosa (F),Swiss cheese plant,Monarda fistulosa (duplicate record � see main entry at 7482). Monarda fistulosa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, indirect light with moderate to high humidity. In the growing season, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. Provide a moss pole or other support if you wish the plant to climb. See houseplant cultivation and Monstera for further information
PruningSee pruning group 11
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 18-24°C as soon as ripe, take tip or leaf cuttings with bottom heat in summer, layer in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free