This week... Monarda (bee balm)

If you want a distinctive perennial that attracts bees, grow monardas

- GRAHAM RICE

How to GROW WITH GRAHAM RICE

MONARDA, also known as bee balm or bergamot, is a hardy perennial plant in the mint family. It develops a spreading, shallow-rooted crown sending out runners that make new roots.

In spring, square-stemmed, vertical shoots develop and carry opposite pairs of toothed, oval leaves topped in summer by clusters of hooded flowers gathered round a central disc. The leaves immediately under the flower are sometimes tinted purple.

Aromatic foliage

The foliage is aromatic and, when crushed, has the same smell as the bergamot orange used to flavour Earl Grey tea. The fragrant flowers are popular with bees and butterflies as they provide a good source of pollen and nectar.

How to buy

MONARDAS are available as seeds, which is an economical way to buy them. Sow seed in spring and plants will usually flower in their second year. The flower colour of garden monardas grown from seeds cannot usually be guaranteed. The best way to buy monardas is via mail-order suppliers. Plant them in clumps of three or five for a quick effect.

Where to buy

Bluebell Cottage Garden Nursery - bluebellcottage.co.uk, 01928 713718

Claire Austin - claireaustin-hardyplants.co.uk, 01686 670 342

Farmyard Nurseries - farmyardnurseries.co.uk, 01559 363389

Garden monardas

GARDEN monardas come in a wide range of colours. The following is just a selection of what’s available:

‘Claire Grace’ is lavender, 3ft (90cm).