Category: Perennial
Family: LAMIACEAE
Genus: Monarda
species: didyma
Origin:
Size: 0 (min) to 0 (max)
Size Description:
Notes:
Growth habit: Upright, spreading
Foliage: Opposite and ovate to ovate-lanceolate, serrate or dentate, green or sometimes purple-tinged, veined, aromatic. Four-angled stems
Flowers: Its 2-lipped, tubular white, pink or red flowers, borne in summer (June-July), are among the showiest of the garden herbs.
Culture: Grows best in soil that stays damp in the summer. However, it dislikes damp winters. The plant is not suitable for high pH soils. It prefers sun but is adaptable to shade as long as the soil remains damp. Plant where its spreading habit will not disrupt the garden. If used in a perennial border, divide every 3 years to prevent excessive spread.
Pests and problems: Powdery mildew. Some cultivars have some resistance to powdery mildew.
Uses: Perennial border, herb garden, naturalized area, container plant. This plant was used by native Americans and early colonists as an herbal tea, and is used as a flavoring for Earl Grey blended tea. Called Beebalm because it attracts bees.
Propagation: Seed, cuttings, division
Cultivars: The following are disease resistant (only disease-resistant cultivars are recommended!) ‘Jacob Cline’ – deep red with a tinge of blue; to 4 feet, shown in both photos. ‘Cambridge Scarlet’ – Bright scarlet flowers, vigorous growth to 3 feet. ‘Croftway Pink’ – Soft pink flowers, 3 to 4 feet tall. ‘Mahogany’ – deep wine-colored flowers, 3 feet tall
Notes courtesy of Sue Trusty.
Characteristics: Wet Soil Tolerant Native Rain Garden

Availability:		High Availability
Deer Resistance:		Good Resistance	See plants that are deer resistant.
Full Sun Tolerance:		Performs Well	See other plants that like full sun.
Part Shade Tolerance:		Good Performance	See other plants that like part shade.

This plant is on the recommended list of: Ron Rothhaas Deer Resistant Attracts Butterflies Kris Barton Alternatives to Invasive Plants Alternatives to Invasive Plants
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