Monarda

More Information About Monarda

The genus Monarda contains roughly 16 species of annual and perennial mint relatives that are endemic to North America. Native Americans used monarda as an antiseptic and, because of the strong mint/oregano flavor and pleasant bergamot orange scent of the leaves, brewed it as tea.

The unusual monarda flowers bloom in a variety of colors from white to pink, red, and purple. The round flower heads are composed of clusters of small tubular flowers that appear from early summer onward and attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Monarda is a tough perennial wildflower, but can suffer from powdery mildew. Many named cultivars (e.g., Monarda 'Peter's Purple) have been selected for improved disease resistance and should be sought out over less resistant varieties. Some monarda plants spread readily via rhizomes and others form nice dense clumps in just a few years...we've selected the latter. When you're ready to buy monarda for your perennial garden, we hope you'll check out our online list of monarda for sale.

Monarda Growing Tips

Monarda will do best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Good air circulation is important to hold back powdery mildew, so don't overcrowd your monarda. Divide regularly to improve air flow between the stems.