Monarda ‘Cambridge Scarlet’ (Bee Balm)

Noted for its large flowers, 3.5 in. across (8 cm), Monarda ‘Cambridge Scarlet’ (Bee Balm) is a clump-forming perennial boasting brilliant deep-scarlet flowers, borne in dense, globular terminal heads. Blooming for weeks from mid-summer to early fall, they rest upon a whorl of decorative brownish-red bracts and attract scores of butterflies and hummingbirds. Their vibrant color is set off to perfection by the bronze-tinged, oval leaves, which are delightfully fragrant and can be enjoyed in salads or simply by passing by.

• Grows in clumps of upright stems, up to 3 ft tall (90 cm)
• Performs best in full sun or partial shade in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. It is not too fussy about soils, provided they are consistently kept moist. Protect from excessive winter wet and do not allow it to dry out in summer. Providing good air circulation to combat powdery mildew is important.
• This showy perennial is a striking addition to informal borders or prairies and meadows. The boldness of its blooms makes it terrific for massing or as an accent plant. Great for containers, it makes excellent cut flowers too.
• Monarda flowers attract streams of butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators, but this plant is deer and rabbit resistant.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Fast-growing, Monarda spreads vigorously and will need to be divided every 3 years.
• Should be cut to the ground after flowering to promote the growth of new healthy shoots and leaves.
• Bee Balm belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, which also includes well-known culinary herbs such as lavender, rosemary, basil, sage, and oregano.