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Bee Balm 'Purple Rooster' - S1
Bee Balm 'Purple Rooster' - S1
Plant

Bee Balm 'Purple Rooster'

Monarda didyma
The Mt. Cuba Center grew and evaluated 'Purple Rooster' over several years, and their enthusiasm for this new variety never waned. Purple flowers sit atop sturdy stems and mildew-free foliage, for no mildew was ever observed by the researchers in the botanical garden. An easy, trouble-free variety that hummingbirds and butterflies love!
SKU #P8395
$9.95
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Growing Companions
Rudbeckia - Sweet Coneflower
Rudbeckia - Sweet Coneflower
Flat-topped Aster
Flat-topped Aster
Bee Balm 'Claire Grace' - S1
Bee Balm 'Claire Grace'
Ironweed
Ironweed
Details
Shipped As
Pot: 3.5" h x 2.63" w (9.5 fl oz)
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
4,
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
2.5-3' h x 2-2.5' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
Bright royal purple
Features
Scented Leaves
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
Attracts Beneficial Insects
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
This summer blooming perennial can be placed in the ground in early spring or fall.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Bee balm is an essential perennial for sunny, moist meadow plantings and informal borders, where it attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. For the best show, plant into compost-enriched soils and space well apart to discourage powdery mildew. Deadhead flower heads that have faded to encourage a rebloom or cut down after flowering. A member of the mint family, it spreads readily by runners and can hollow out in the center after a few years. Divide every 2-3 years, or cut offshoots to replant.
Final Spacing:
2'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Keep moist, especially in full sun, but avoid overly saturated soils.
Soil pH:
Prefers acidic to neutral, but will grow in slightly alkaline soils. Adding some well-rotted manure to alkaline soil can help to bring the pH level down a bit.
Fertilizer:
Each spring, apply about 1/2-1" of compost.
Diseases & Pests:
Bee balm is susceptible to mildew, but Purple Rooster is highly resistant. Mildew can be prevented by thinning and allowing for good air circulation around the stems. Keeping soil evenly moist will also help to prevent this problem.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when the flowers are nearly open.
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