Monarda ‘Leading Lady Lilac’ (Bee Balm)

Compact and early flowering, Monarda ‘Leading Lady Lilac’ (Bee Balm) is a clump-forming, densely branched perennial which produces pale lilac-purple flowers, borne in dense, globular terminal heads. A fine mist of dark purple spots appears on the open petals. Blooming for weeks from early to mid-summer, they rest upon a whorl of decorative bracts and attract scores of butterflies and hummingbirds. They are borne atop upright stems clad with aromatic, dark green leaves. This dwarf variety is perfect for the front of borders, containers, and small gardens.

• Grows in clumps of upright stems, up to 10-14 in. tall (25-35 cm) and 22-28 in. wide (55-70 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. The boldness of its blooms makes it terrific for massing or as an accent plant. Great for containers and small gardens, 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.