Whorls of scarlet flowers appear in profusion from midsummer to early autumn above the aromatic, mid-green leaves. This compact bergamot is an ideal, long flowering plant for the front of the border, where it looks lovely planted in drifts.
How to care for Monarda Fireball (PBR):
Lift and divide large clumps in early April. Resist cutting bergamot back in autumn since the stiff, vertical stems look good all winter. These plants are very susceptible to powdery mildew, and while this rarely causes long term damage it can look unsightly towards the end of the summer. You can help reduce this by applying a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around each plant in spring and autumn.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.4m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
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This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.