Monarda 'Raspberry Wine' |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Bee Balm
Common Name (Alternative): Bergamot |
Buds that resemble raspberries open to reveal the wine red flowers of this selection. They appear atop the stocky, square stems from midsummer to fall. This variety out-blooms most other Monardas. The attractive, dark green foliage exhibits excellent mildew resistance.
Monarda is native to eastern North America, so it is easy to grow and it multiplies quickly. The flowers' sweet nectar attracts scores of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to the garden. The aromatic foliage smells like mint when crushed and is often used to flavor teas.
Introducer: White Flower Farm
Origin: Native Cultivar
Characteristics:
Height:
30-42 Inches
Spread:
30-42 Inches
Flower Color:
Purple-red shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Part shade (4-6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Average water needs
Consistent water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Attracts hummingbirds
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Rapid
When should it bloom?:
Midsummer
Late summer
How's your soil?:
Average Soil
Fertile Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Cottage
Rain Garden
Eclectic
Monarda can be found naturally along riverbanks and enjoys this rich, organic, moist soil. However, it will grow in average soil as well. Full sun is best, but light shade is tolerated. Plants tend to spread more quickly in the shade, however.
Most monardas multiply rapidly either by underground stems or self-sowing. In order to keep plants healthy and vigorous, they should be divided at least every three years in the spring. Deadheading spent blooms will prolong the bloom time.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal problem with monarda. Some varieties are more resistant to it than others. To prevent this fungus from appearing, large clumps should be thinned out so that the air circulates freely around them. The soil should also be kept consistantly moist; dry soil promotes powdery mildew.