Monarda bradburiana, Eastern beebalm, 9cm pot
A beautiful perennial wildflower and one of the most attractive for both humans and pollinators! Lovely aromatic foliage on a naturally short plant, the foliage alone is attractive and tends to take on deep purple tones especially in hot weather. It is renowned for being highly resistant to mildew even in humid climates - it certainly showed no signs of it for me last summer. Strong square stems appear in early summer, topped with loads of fluffy soft rose-pink, typical bergamot flowers, the petals frequently dotted with purple spots. This one is shorter and sturdier than many of the Monarda didyma varieties. Does well in most soils but dislikes wet feet in winter, and in very dry areas will benefit from afternoon shade or a good soak every now and then. Clumps are creeping and will expand, especially in fertile soil, but can be divided easily. Mature flowering size 40-60cm high x 50-80cm wide. 9cm pot.