Cluster of pink bee balm (Monarda) flowers in bloom, showing tubular petals radiating from rounded centers, with green leaves and softly blurred garden background. Mt Cuba Center.
Large drift of pink bee balm (Monarda) in bloom, with numerous shaggy, tubular flowers covering dense green foliage in a garden bed. Mt Cuba Center.
Cluster of pink bee balm (Monarda) flowers in bloom, showing tubular petals radiating from rounded centers, with green leaves and softly blurred garden background. Mt Cuba Center.
Large drift of pink bee balm (Monarda) in bloom, with numerous shaggy, tubular flowers covering dense green foliage in a garden bed. Mt Cuba Center.

Wild Monarda aka Bergamot ~ Monarda fistulosa ‘Claire Grace’

$7.00
sold out

Pot Size:   1 quart

Native Status:  Nativar

Description:  This plant prefers rich, humusy soils in full sun, but appreciates some afternoon shade in sweltering summer climates. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. Remove spent flowers to improve plant appearance and to prolong bloom. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and to control mildly spreading tendencies (slowly spreads by rhizomes). Provide plants with good air circulation to help combat fungal leaf diseases. ‘Claire Grace’ has a sturdier habit, darker purple flowers, better resistance to powdery mildew, and more attractive, glossy green foliage.

Light Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade          Drought Tolerant :  Yes
Soil Moisture:  Medium to Dry                           Salt Tolerant:  Yes
Mature Height:  3 – 4 ft                                      Deer Resistant: Yes
Mature Width:  2 – 3 ft

Bloom Color/Bloom Time:   Blooms in a soft lavender-purple color from late June through August.

Historical Uses:  Tea from flowers of Monarda fistulosa used for fevers and colds, tea made from leaves used for coughs and whooping cough. Boiled leaves placed in soft cloth placed over sore eyes and pimples. Tea of leaves or flowers for abdominal pain and to sooth the kidneys.

Wildlife Values: This pollinator plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

‍‍👉 For more information visit NC Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

Pot Size:   1 quart

Native Status:  Nativar

Description:  This plant prefers rich, humusy soils in full sun, but appreciates some afternoon shade in sweltering summer climates. Soils must not be allowed to dry out. Remove spent flowers to improve plant appearance and to prolong bloom. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and to control mildly spreading tendencies (slowly spreads by rhizomes). Provide plants with good air circulation to help combat fungal leaf diseases. ‘Claire Grace’ has a sturdier habit, darker purple flowers, better resistance to powdery mildew, and more attractive, glossy green foliage.

Light Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade          Drought Tolerant :  Yes
Soil Moisture:  Medium to Dry                           Salt Tolerant:  Yes
Mature Height:  3 – 4 ft                                      Deer Resistant: Yes
Mature Width:  2 – 3 ft

Bloom Color/Bloom Time:   Blooms in a soft lavender-purple color from late June through August.

Historical Uses:  Tea from flowers of Monarda fistulosa used for fevers and colds, tea made from leaves used for coughs and whooping cough. Boiled leaves placed in soft cloth placed over sore eyes and pimples. Tea of leaves or flowers for abdominal pain and to sooth the kidneys.

Wildlife Values: This pollinator plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

‍‍👉 For more information visit NC Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Medicinal plants can have serious side effects and interactions with medications. Consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, as you are responsible for your own health decisions.
Photo Credits:

1 - Monarda fistulosa ‘Claire Grace’ Mt Cuba Center
2 - Monarda fistulosa ‘Claire Grace’ Mt Cuba Center