Monarda Leading Lady Orchid

Available late May 2019

photo of Monarda 'Leading Lady Orchid' courtesy of Walters Gardens
Bee Balm

Monarda 'Leading Lady Orchid' is a new hybrid that is very early flowering and very compact. It typically blooms from early summer into midsummer and grows just a foot tall. The densely branched, dark green, somewhat glossy foliage is topped with orchid pink blossoms and lighter pink interiors providing a bicolor effect. A fine mist of fuchsia spots appears on the open petals. The blossoms' sweet nectar is highly attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and honeybees and the aromatic foliage is naturally deer resistant.

  • Height: 25-36 cm (10-14 in)
  • Spread: 56-71 cm (22-28 in)
  • Cold Hardiness: Zone 4-8
  • Sun or Shade: full sun to light shade (minimum 4 hours direct sun)
  • Bloom Time: early summer to mid summer
  • Leaf Colour: green
  • Bloom Colour: orchid pink
  • Critter Resistance: deer and rabbits
  • Nature Attraction: bees, butterflies and hummingbirds

Growing and Maintenance Tips

Monarda enjoys rich moist soil, however it is adaptable to average soil. Sun is best but light shade is tolerated. Dead head spent flowers to prolong bloom. This cultivar has good mildew resistance but ensure that air circulation is good and the soil does not dry out. Regular division is necessary to keep the plants healthy.

Specials

New for 2019
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