Monarda Gewitterwolke - Beebalm

The abundant summer flowers of Monarda 'Gewitterwolke' are very bright pink, with deep pink bracts, against a superb backdrop of dark green, aromatic leaves. This is a large accommodating perennial for ordinary, moderately moist to not too dry soil, in full sun or partial shade, ideal for sunny flower beds or cool woodland areas.

Monardas or bee balms belong to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many medicinal and aromatic plants. 'Gewitterwolke' is a herbaceous perennial, with an upright clumping habit, 80 cm (32in) high with a spread of 40 cm (16in). It flowers for up to 8 weeks in July-August with unique, tousled inflorescences. Perched on upright stems are small, recurved, bright pink, 4 to 5 cm (2in) long flowers, surrounded by coloured bracts, with an upright upper lip and a more spread-out lower lip divided into three lobes. The flowers are nectar-rich and attract insects. The ornamental foliage is dark green in this variety and aromatic when crushed. The leaves are opposite, veined and toothed, 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) long. This plant covers the ground in two or three years, spreading through 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 'Gewitterwolke' will blend 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 white, mauve or red phlox paniculata, or rose fuchsia willowherbs. Monarda 'Gewitterwolke' also pairs well in late summer with Asters lateriflorus, Campanulas lactiflora, Echinaceas, and other perennial plants. It is suitable for planting in borders, as well as on the banks of well-drained water features, where it will like the moisture. It is also found in meadows and forests. These 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.