Monarda didyma Pink Lace - Beebalm

Monarda didyma 'Pink Lace' or Bee Balm, also known as bergamot due to the aroma of its foliage, has compact growth, well-suited for small spaces and container gardening. This variety has large, frilly, deep pink flowers, even at a young age, above very healthy foliage, sometimes purple, and strongly aromatic. This perennial is an accommodating, nectar-rich plant, ideal for gently sunny borders or cool woodlands. It thrives in ordinary, moist but not too dry soil, in sun or partial shade.

The 'Pink Lace' Bee Balm belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many medicinal and aromatic plants such as sage and lavender. It is one of the many hybrids obtained through cross-breeding between two wild species, Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa, both native to North America. 'Pink Lace' was selected for its compact habit and resistance to powdery mildew.

It is a bushy, herbaceous perennial, forming clump 40 cm (16in) tall and about 45-50 cm (18-20in) wide. Its nectar-rich flowers bloom from July to September for up to 8 weeks in the height of summer at the end of upright square stems. In this variety, the intricately shaped, medium pink flowers are arranged in a fountain-like shape around a well-defined purple centre. These inflorescences are composed of small flowers measuring 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) long, surrounded by green bracts, and have an upright upper lip and a more spread-out lower lip divided into three lobes. The fairly dark green foliage is sometimes tinged with purple and when crushed, it releases a characteristic citrus scent. The leaves are opposite, veined, and toothed, 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5in) long, and often attract insects. This plant covers the ground in two or three years, spreading through its rhizomes without becoming invasive. It is hardy and can also be long-lived if provided with good growing conditions.

In flower beds and borders, 'Pink Lace' Bee Balm pairs well with summer-flowering perennials in vibrant or pastel colours. Plant it in groups of six to achieve a beautiful mass of flowers and combine it with pink daylilies or violet-flowered agastaches. Towards the end of summer, its blooming will complement Asters lateriflorus, Campanula lactiflora, Echinaceas, and many other perennial plants. It is also suitable for planting in borders and along the edges of water features, where it enjoys the moisture. Its flowers are lovely in bouquets.

It is worth noting that bee balm contains essential oils similar to those of thyme and its fresh or dried leaves or flowers can be used to make herbal tea. The young shoots can also be used in salads or stuffing.