Scarlet Bee Balm

Monarda didyma

Scarlet Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa) is a structural or seasonal plant with red blooms in summer with sporadic blooms into fall. They prefer wet to moist soil in sun to part sun where they grow up to 4 feet tall. They are a good choice for slopes and basins. Companion plants include 'Gateway' Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum ‘Gateway’) and Bluestar (Amsonia tabernaemontana).

Maintenance

Powdery mildew can be a significant problem in areas with poor air-circulation. To prevent aggressive spread, divide plants annually in March.

About

Light Requirements
Sun, Part Sun
Moisture Requirements
Slopes, Basin
Soil Requirements
Acidic, Clay, Loam
Height
Medium
Spacing
2 to 3 feet
Category
Seasonal, Structural
Attracts
Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Illinois Native Plant Status
Not Native
Bloom Time
June, July, August
Bloom Color
Red
Seasonality
Fall, Summer, Winter
Sociability
Groups up to 5