Monarda | Heijnen Plants

Filters

90cm

Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' Bergamot

5-10cm

Added to shopping cart

3^60From

100cm

Monarda 'Cambridge Scarlet' Bergamot

5-10cm

Added to shopping cart

3^60From

90cm

Monarda 'Schneewittchen' Bergamot

5-10cm

Added to shopping cart

3^60From

products found, click here to view them

Buy monarda (bee balm)

Monarda is a vibrant summer bee plant that brings life to any garden. Known for its upright square stems and whorled “tuft”-like flowers, it blooms from June to August. This fragrant perennial is not only a colourful border flower but also a favourite among pollinators. Curious about why bee balm attracts so many bees and butterflies? Dive deeper into how this scented perennial can enhance a cottage or prairie border. Consider the benefits of integrating bergamot into your garden for a lively and buzzing space. Ready to add this vibrant flowering perennial to your collection? Buy Monarda UK and watch your garden transform.

provides a range of Monarda plants, perfect for enhancing your garden. These plants are not only lovely to look at but also attract numerous pollinators, benefiting the ecosystem. Monarda, or bee balm, is admired for its aromatic leaves and potential herbal uses. It is especially suited for cottage and prairie borders, bringing life and movement to outdoor spaces. For best results, follow simple pruning tips to encourage healthy growth and blooming. A garden with Monarda is vibrant and lively, providing a feast for the eyes and a haven for pollinators. Buy the aromatic Monarda (Bee Balm) via Heijnen and attract bees and curious looks to your flower garden.

What Is Monarda? Learn About This Scented, Long-Blooming Perennial

Monarda, commonly known as bee balm, is a popular plant in gardens. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is famous for its aromatic leaves. Bee balm, also called bergamot or Monarda flower, attracts pollinators like bumblebees and butterflies, making it a pollinator magnet. This scented perennial is often used in borders, group plantings, pots, and natural gardens. Originating from North America, bee balm thrives in UK gardens too. Its role as a nectar plant in natural habitats supports various insects, while its aromatic foliage is a delight. The name Monarda comes from Nicolás Monardes, and in Indigenous cultures, bee balm is a sacred symbol of healing and freedom. As a perennial plant, Monarda is moderately hardy. During winter, the leaves die back, but they re-emerge in April, spreading via rootstocks. This vibrant flowering perennial is ideal for those looking to buy Monarda in the UK. Its appeal as a pollinator favourite and herbal use in gardens makes it a valuable addition. For those interested in buying Monarda, it promises both beauty and ecological benefits.

Traits of Monarda: Whorled Flowers, Aromatic Leaves and Bee Appeal

Monarda is a fragrant perennial that attracts many butterflies and bees. It features upright square stems and opposite aromatic leaves. The flowers are whorled, forming "tuft"-like clusters in colours such as red, pink, purple, and white. The plant spreads via rootstocks, making it suitable for borders, group planting, and natural gardens. Monarda (bee balm) begins its growth cycle in April when leaves emerge after dying back in winter. It typically blooms from June to August. Blooming depends on factors such as climate, temperature, and soil care. The blooms are vibrant, attracting pollinators with their captivating range of colours. Red, pink, and purple are the most common hues, often with a lovely fragrance. Conditions like soil type, light availability, and plant care influence bloom colours. Known for its aromatic leaves, Monarda (bee balm) provides a lovely scent that varies with plant age and environmental factors. Its height ranges from 60 cm to 120 cm, depending on the species and growing conditions. Optimal growth involves proper site selection, climate adaptation, and soil maintenance. This colourful border flower is perfect for adding appeal to any garden.

Monarda boasts oval leaves with a crenate edge, offering an aromatic fragrance. The leaf colour ranges from fresh green to dark green, adapting well to its surroundings. Monarda is hardy, thriving in temperatures between -29°C and -23°C, typical of USDA zones 5 to 6. This plant is somewhat sensitive to mildew, but its resilience allows it to regrow robustly. It maintains its foliage throughout the year, though it can handle temporary drought conditions. The plant is not evergreen, shedding its leaves annually. Originating from a climate that supports its structure and growth, Monarda shows good heat and drought resistance. This is partly due to its leaf structure and ability to maintain moisture. It is not toxic to children or pets and fits well in herb gardens and flower beds, ensuring a safe gardening experience. Monarda's ecological value lies in its striking pompom flowers in red, pink, and purple, which attract many insects. This enhances biodiversity by providing food and shelter for pollinators. The plant's long flowering period, from July to September, supports a healthy garden ecosystem. Choose mildew-resistant varieties to ensure a vigorous garden presence. Grow Monarda didyma UK for an aromatic butterfly attractor in the garden.

Using Monarda in Wildlife Borders, Prairie Gardens and Pots

Monarda is a vibrant addition to any garden. This plant is known for attracting pollinators, making it ideal for bee and butterfly gardens. Its striking flowers and pleasant fragrance add beauty and aroma to various garden settings. Here's how Monarda can be used in the garden:

Create a stunning border with Monarda. The bright blooms work well along garden edges, adding colour and texture.
Use Monarda for group planting to create a sea of colour. Ideal for cottage and prairie borders, it provides a natural look.
Monarda can be an excellent choice for pots and planters. It's perfect for small spaces like patios and balconies.
Enhance a natural garden with Monarda. It thrives well in insect corners, attracting bees and butterflies.
Incorporate Monarda into an edible garden. The petals are edible and can be used in salads and teas.
Monarda is a pollinator favourite, providing an essential food source for bees and butterflies throughout the blooming season.

Planting Monarda can enrich a garden's ecosystem while boosting its visual appeal. This scented perennial is not only easy to care for but also versatile in use. As an essential element in diverse planting schemes, it remains a top choice for gardeners who wish to support wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature. Buy bee balm to enhance the garden with this delightful plant and enjoy its benefits.

Great Companion Plants for Monarda in Sunny Beds

Monarda adds vibrant colour and life to any sunny garden bed. It can be beautifully paired with other perennials like Echinacea and Agastache. These combinations create a striking visual appeal, with Echinacea's large daisy-like flowers complementing the delicate blooms of Monarda. Agastache, known for its spikes of purple or blue flowers, provides a lovely contrast and enhances the garden's overall texture. Including Salvia and Rudbeckia adds layers of height and colour, making the garden more dynamic. Phlox, with its clusters of pink or white flowers, softens the look, creating a balanced appearance. These companions also attract bees and butterflies, enriching the garden's ecosystem. Monarda blooms in bright colours and attracts butterflies as a fragrant butterfly plant. Together, they ensure a lively garden atmosphere throughout the summer. Monarda is known for being a summer bee plant and a fragrant perennial, making it a popular choice for bee and butterfly gardens. It's not just a colourful border flower but also a crucial component in creating a thriving garden environment. These plant combinations are sure to inspire any gardener looking to enhance their space.

Soil, Drainage and Positioning Tips for Thriving Monarda (bee balm) Plants

Monarda, a vibrant flowering perennial, thrives best in full sun to light shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight each day for vigorous growth. When considering light needs, ensure the plant receives adequate morning sun, which can help prevent mildew issues. Monarda flower is not particularly wind-sensitive, but planting in a sheltered spot can prevent wind damage to taller stems. For the soil, Monarda prefers calcareous, nutrient-rich, and well-drained conditions. Regularly enriching the soil with organic matter will promote healthy growth. Good drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogged roots, which can harm the plant. Maintaining moderately moist soil is key, especially during dry spells, to ensure Monarda remains healthy. Consistent watering without overwatering helps balance soil moisture. The pH preference for Monarda is slightly acidic to neutral. Soil testing can help determine pH levels, and lime application can adjust acidity if necessary. This pollinator favourite attracts bees, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Growers can buy Monarda UK for its scented perennial appeal and ability to attract pollinators. Proper care ensures Monarda remains a stunning centrepiece in the garden.

How and When to Plant Monarda for Optimal Pollinator Activity

Monarda is best planted in spring or early autumn, especially during moist weather. Plants in pots can be placed anytime except during frost, while those with root balls or bare roots should be planted in spring and autumn. For the best results, plant Monarda in fertile, moist but well-draining soil, and ensure the spot gets sun to part shade. Use Heijnen planting soil for optimal growth. It's crucial to space Monarda correctly, depending on the plant size and growth rate. Check the Heijnen product page for specific spacing details. Generally, Monarda requires full sun to light shade, and at least six hours of sunlight each day. Before planting, prepare the soil by working in compost to ensure it is nutrient-rich. After planting, water the Monarda well and consider regular division to prevent spreading. Keep in mind that this fragrant perennial prefers calcareous, moist soil and can tolerate temporary drought. Be sure to water regularly and apply fertiliser to promote healthy growth. This pollinator magnet will thrive as a colourful border flower and is a favourite among bees, providing a scented haven in any garden.

Maintaining Monarda: Deadheading, Spacing and Mildew Prevention

Monarda, also known as bee balm, is a lovely perennial that adds vibrant colour to any garden. It blooms from July to September and attracts many pollinators, making it a valuable addition to natural gardens. Proper care ensures healthy growth and beautiful flowers.

Plant Monarda in fertile, well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms throughout the season. Use sharp secateurs to remove spent flowers.
Prune the plant back to about 10 cm in March to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent mildew.
Divide Monarda every three years to control spread and enhance vigour. This helps prevent mildew, a common concern for gardeners.
Water deeply but infrequently. Check soil moisture by feeling it; water when the top layer feels dry.
If replanting, do so in early spring or late autumn. Water thoroughly after replanting to help establish roots.
Consider Monarda's role as a pollinator magnet when planning insect gardens or herb beds.

By following these steps, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and ecological benefits of Monarda, ensuring it thrives year after year.

The Unique Ornamental and Ecological Value of Bee Balm

Monarda is a plant that brings vibrant colours and life to any garden. Its striking pompom flowers blossom in shades of red, pink, purple, and even white. These colourful blooms are not only beautiful but also attract a variety of pollinators. Monarda is an aromatic butterfly plant that attracts butterflies. The plant’s fresh green leaves add to its beauty and release a pleasant fragrance when crushed, making it a favourite among gardeners who enjoy scented perennials. This perennial plant is moderately hardy and has an upright, branched growth form. The leaves die back in winter and regrow in April, providing seasonal interest. Bee balm is well-known for being bee and butterfly-friendly, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens. In addition to providing nectar, it can serve as a shelter for small garden creatures. Monarda's aromatic foliage and long flowering period make it ideal for use in prairie gardens and as a colourful border flower. Whether planted in bee and butterfly gardens or cottage-style borders, bee balm, also known as Bergamot, offers both visual appeal and ecological benefits. Incorporating Monarda into garden designs helps support local wildlife and enhances the garden's overall charm.

Popular Monarda Varieties for UK Pollinator-Friendly Gardens

Monarda, also known as bee balm, is a scented perennial that is loved for its vibrant flowers and aromatic leaves. It's a popular choice for UK gardens aiming to attract bees and other pollinators. This plant is also appreciated for its herbal uses and blooms from July to September, making it a favourite for those looking to grow vibrant flowering perennials for bees. Here are some popular Monarda varieties to consider for your garden:

Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham': This variety offers soft lavender-pink blooms and is known for its mildew-resistant properties, making it a wonderful addition to any garden.
Monarda 'Cambridge Scarlet': With its striking scarlet flowers, this is a pollinator favourite and adds a pop of colour to the landscape.
Monarda fistulosa 'Croftway Pink': Features beautiful pink flowers and has a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies alike.
Monarda fistulosa 'Gardenview Scarlet': Noted for its large, vibrant red flowers, it's perfect for those looking to grow Monarda didyma UK style.
Monarda fistulosa 'Jacob Cline': This variety is renowned for its vigorous growth and bright red blooms.
Monarda fistulosa 'Marshall's Delight': Known for its mildew resistance and bright pink flowers, it's a reliable choice for UK gardens.
Monarda fistulosa 'Prärienacht': Offers beautiful deep purple flowers and is appreciated for its durability.
Monarda fistulosa 'Scorpion': This variety features rich magenta blooms and is perfect for adding interesting contrasts to the garden.
Monarda 'Schneewittchen': With its pure white flowers, it provides a unique touch among more traditional colours.

These popular and much-loved Monarda varieties not only beautify gardens but also support important pollinators. All these varieties can be conveniently ordered online from Heijnen.

Advantages and Drawbacks of Adding Monarda to Your Plot

Monarda is a wonderful addition to gardens with its vibrant flowers and aromatic foliage. Known for attracting pollinators, this plant brings life to any setting.

Advantages:

Monarda is highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a top choice for pollinator gardens.
The foliage of Monarda emits a pleasant fragrance, enhancing the sensory experience in the garden.
This plant is ideal for prairie gardens and borders, providing structure and colour.
Monarda has a long flowering period, ensuring continuous blooms throughout the growing season.

Disadvantages:

Monarda can be prone to mildew, which can affect its appearance and health.
It is not tolerant of lime-rich soils, requiring careful site selection.
Proper air circulation is necessary to prevent disease, which might limit planting options.

Ensuring the right soil preparation, location, and careful care will reduce disease and pest issues. Always give plants the attention they need for optimal growth and flowering.

Purchase Monarda Plants Today from Heijnen’s Online Nursery

Monarda plants make a stunning addition to any garden. Known for their vibrant flowers and fragrant foliage, they are ideal for bee and butterfly gardens. From July to September, Monarda blooms offer long-lasting colour and beauty. When choosing Monarda, consider their role in prairie gardens or as cut flowers for indoor arrangements. Heijnen's online nursery

Ideal placement of a Monarda

Monarda thrives in a sunny spot with at least six hours of sun per day. It appreciates full sun to light shade and grows best in calcareous, nutrient-rich, and moderately moist soil. Well-drained soil is crucial for preventing root rot. While Monarda can tolerate temporary drought, regular moisture supports healthier growth and vibrant blooms. The right location results in a stronger plant with richer flowers and better resistance to stress. Monarda grows well on various soil types but prefers fertile, well-drained conditions. It can be used in borders, group plantings, pots, and insect corners, adding beauty and attracting pollinators to the garden. Ensuring the right spot is vital for the plant’s growth and flowering. Planting is best done in spring or early autumn, allowing it to establish before the extremes of weather. Regular pruning and care will maintain its vigour.

Planting a Monarda

Preparing the soil is crucial when planting Monarda. Proper soil preparation helps plants grow strong by ensuring nutrients and water are available. The soil should be fertile and moist but well-draining, with added compost for extra nutrients. This preparation supports root development and allows bee balm to thrive. Pot-grown plants can be planted year-round, avoiding frost conditions, while root-ball plants are best planted in spring or autumn. It's important not to remove the jute sack around the plant's root ball when planting. After planting, give Monarda plenty of water to help establish roots in the new soil. The size of the Monarda plant will determine how many can be planted per square metre, ensuring they have enough space to grow. With proper care, Monarda will add vibrant colours to any garden.

Fertilising a Monarda

Fertilising Monarda is crucial for vibrant growth and stunning blooms. This ensures the plant's health and vitality. Rich fertilisation aids in developing both strong roots and beautiful flowers. Using organic or organic-mineral fertilisers from Heijnen supports healthy growth and abundant blooms, providing essential nutrients. Fertilising twice a year, in early spring and mid-summer, is ideal for Monarda. The amount of fertiliser depends on the plant's size; larger plants need more. Nutrients are only absorbed once rain or water has carried them into the soil, so watering during dry spells is essential to release nutrients and help roots absorb them. Monarda is perfect for borders, group plantings, pots, and natural gardens, making it a favourite in many gardens. Regular care will result in eye-catching red, pink, purple, white, or lilac flowers with lush green foliage.

Pruning a Monarda

Monarda benefits from regular pruning to maintain its health and appearance. Trimming improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and encourages more blooms. The best time to prune is after flowering. This helps improve the plant's shape and prepares it for the next growing season. A good practice is to cut back Monarda to about 10 cm in March. Besides, dividing the plant every three years helps prevent mildew and ensures robust growth. Using sharp secateurs is important to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant. Quality tools can make the task easier and more effective. Keeping Monarda well-maintained not only enhances its beauty but also attracts pollinators to the garden, making it a valuable addition. Regular care and the right techniques ensure Monarda thrives, providing long-lasting colour and interest.

Watering a Monarda

Monarda typically requires a moderate to high amount of water. Different species within this genus may have varying water needs, but keeping the soil consistently slightly moist is beneficial, particularly during flowering. Newly planted Monarda should receive regular watering in the initial stages to ensure proper rooting. Once established, watering is only necessary during prolonged dry periods. It is more effective to water thoroughly rather than providing small amounts daily. This promotes strong root development. The best time to water Monarda is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, reducing evaporation. Checking the soil moisture is essential to determine if watering is needed. Ensure excess water can drain away effectively, whether in the ground or in pots. Drip irrigation systems work well once Monarda is well-rooted, but additional watering is needed during the initial planting phase. Monarda has moderate drought tolerance; however, it can experience leaf scorch and flower drop if dry conditions persist.

The characteristics of a Monarda

Monarda is a striking plant, known for its vibrant pompom flowers in red, pink, and purple. It is a favourite in gardens, attracting bees and butterflies with its fragrant foliage. Monarda holds a special meaning in Indigenous cultures as a symbol of healing and freedom. Interestingly, this plant is non-toxic, making it safe for children and pets. Often referred to as bee balm, it thrives in herb gardens and borders, offering long flowering periods.

Separating/dividing a Monarda

Dividing Monarda helps keep the plant healthy and encourages new growth. This process is important because it rejuvenates the plant, removing old parts and allowing more space for young, vibrant growth. It also prevents overcrowding, which can hinder healthy development. Dividing Monarda offers the advantage of creating more plants, which can be shared or replanted to fill the garden with colour. To divide Monarda, carefully dig up the plant, remove older sections, and replant the young parts. This is best done every two to three years. Autumn is ideal for this task. Use a sharp spade or knife to ensure clean cuts and reduce damage. Regular division ensures a strong and blooming display of Monarda in any garden.

The ideal variety for you Buy monarda (bee balm)

Bee balm has upright square stems and aromatic leaves, with whorled "tuft"-like flowers in red, purple, or pink. These striking flowers bloom from June to August, making bee balm a favourite in gardens. It attracts bees and butterflies, perfect for prairie borders or as cut flowers. Buy the aromatic Monarda (Bee Balm) via Heijnen and attract bees and curious looks to your flower garden.

0203 455 22 48

Send an e-mail
[email protected]

Personal advice from
our specialists? We are happy to help you!