Monarda is a great way to invite hummingbirds to any garden landscape naturally.
Gardeners are encouraged to look for the scientific name to verify they are getting the right plant.
Plant CategoryMonarda didymais an herbaceous perennial plant.
Monarda –Source
Other monardas may not be as hardy so be sure to check the plants scientific name carefully.
Foliage A member of the mint family, Oswego tea has fragrant foliage.
The toothed, lance-shaped leaves are still sometimes used to flavor tea, salads and other culinary dishes.
Growth Habit Monarda has an upright, clump-forming growth habit.
Preferred Conditions Zones 4-9.
Monarda grows best in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or part shade.
Overcrowding the plants can lead to disease problems.
Maintenance Monarda is a hardy perennial plant that will spread in favorable conditions through rhizomes or self-seeding.
Pruning or division may be necessary every 2-4 years to control spread.
Many gardeners will also prune the plant back after flowering if the plant becomes ragged looking.
Deadheading spent monarda blooms can encourage a longer flowering season as well.
Evenly moist soil is almost a must for mondarda plants to prevent stressing out the plant.
Summer blooms last for many weeks making it a real work-horse in the garden.
Lighter pink in color than Petite Delight but both are mildew resistant.
Blue Stocking or Blaustrumpf
A purple or blue flowering monarda that grows 4-5 tall.
Snow White
A nearly pure white flowering monarda, Snow White can reach 2-4 tall.
