Monarda didyma 'Cambridge Scarlet'

Bee Balm


Photo courtesy of Ball Horticulture

  • Bright scarlet flowers from mid summer to early fall
  • Bronze-tinged, mint scented foliage
  • Native to eastern North America
Border or Bed
Border or Bed
Container
Container
Cut Flower/ Foliage
Cut Flower/ Foliage
Fragrant
Fragrant
Garden
Garden
Long Blooming
Long Blooming
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance

Uniquely shaped flowers perch on erect stems in scarlet red, pink and purple shades.  Blooms late summer.  The leaves release a spicy fragrance when crushed, similar to bergamot orange. Bees love this plant!



Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Prefers consistent moisture (not wet) and rich, well drained soil Plant in full to part sun, Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew Multiply by underground stems or self seeding Deadheading will extend bloom time.


Height: 24-36 in
Spread: 12-24 in
Spacing: 18-24 in
Price Level 1: $7.99 ea.~#1
Bloom Color: Red
Zone: 4-9
Price Level 2: 5 for $35~#1
 

Additional Characteristics & Attributes:


Attributes:

  • Mass Planting
  • Garden
  • Container
  • Low Maintenance
  • Fragrant
  • Cut Flower/ Foliage
  • Native
  • Border or Bed
  • Long Blooming
  • Naturalizing

Critter Resistance:

  • Deer Resistant

Exposure:

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Sun

Habit:

  • Upright
  • Mounding

Foliage Color:

  • Green

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Summer

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Butterflies
  • Attracts Pollinators
  • Attracts Hummingbirds

Soil Moisture:

  • Moist, Well-Drained


Genus Overview: Monarda

Common Name: Bee Balm

Uniquely shaped flowers perch on erect stems in scarlet red, pink and purple shades.  Blooms late summer.  The leaves release a spicy fragrance when crushed, similar to bergamot orange. Bees love this plant!