Monarda Cambridge Scarlet - Beebalm

Monarda 'Cambridge Scarlet is vigorous and loved for the brilliance of its intense red flowers. The tousled heads of purple bracts rise above a tuft of superb aromatic leaves. This versatile perennial should be planted in ordinary, not too dry soil at the back of sunny beds or in very light woodland.

Monardas form a bouquet of tousled flowers from the beginning of summer until October, on a deliciously aromatic, disease-resistant foliage. It is a large, floriferous but demanding perennial, which spreads quickly in fertile, ordinary, moist soil, in a sunny or semi-shaded position.

Monarda 'Cambridge Scarlet' belongs to the Lamiaceae or Labiate family, which includes many medicinal and aromatic plants. It is one of many hybrids of M. didyma and M. fistulosa, both native to North America. It is a large herbaceous perennial, with an upright clump habit rapidly reaching a height of 90 cm (35in), with a minimum spread of 40 cm (16in). It flowers from July onwards, and can continue until October if faded flowers are removed. The tousled shape of its inflorescences is unique. They are composed of scarlet red, curved flowers washed with purple, 5 to 7 cm (2 to 3in) long, surrounded by darker bracts, and have an upright upper lip and a spread-out lower lip divided into three lobes perched on upright stems. The flowers are nectar-rich. The medium green foliage is tinged with purple in this variety, and aromatic when crushed, releasing a pleasant citrus scent. The opposite, veined and toothed leaves are 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) long and often attract insects. This plant spreads through its fine rhizomes, without becoming invasive. It is very hardy, and can also be very long-lived if the growing conditions are good.

In flower beds and borders, Monarda 'Scarlet Cambridge' sets summer ablaze with shimmering or pastel colours. Plant it in groups of six to obtain a beautiful mass of flowers, and combine it with lobelias or fuchsia pink spiked willows. Monarda 'Scarlet Cambridge' also pairs well with persicarias, Campanula lactiflora, Echinaceas, and tall grasses such as Miscanthus or Pennisetums. It is suitable for landscaping water edges, if well-drained, where it enjoys the moisture. It is also found in meadows and forests. Its flowers are delightful for creating beautiful bouquets. It is worth noting that Monarda contains essential oils similar to those of thyme, and tea can be made from its fresh or dried leaves or flowers. The young shoots can also be used in salads or stuffing roast.