Perennial Leading Lady Orchid BeeBalm – MONARDA ‘Leading Lady Orchid’ PP33132 CPBRAF – Leading Lady Series. 10-14″ tall, 22-28″ spread, full sun-part shade, early-midsummer bloom. Densely branched, dark green and somewhat glossy foliage is topped with orchid pink blossoms and lighter pink interiors providing a bi-color effect. A fine mist of fuchsia spots appears on the open petals. The flowers’ sweet nectar attracts scores of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to the garden. Deer resistant. Zones 4-8. Potted in 3″ pot.
Monarda can be found naturally along riverbanks and enjoys this rich, organic, moist soil. However, it will grow in average soil as well. Full sun is best, but light shade is tolerated. Plants tend to spread more quickly in the shade, however.
Most monardas multiply rapidly either by underground stems or self-sowing. Deadheading spent blooms will prolong the bloom time.
Powdery mildew is a common fungal problem with monarda. Some varieties are more resistant to it than others. To prevent this fungus from appearing, large clumps should be thinned out so that the air circulates freely around them. The soil should also be kept consistently moist; dry soil promotes powdery mildew.
Garden Style:
Patio Container, Cottage, Eclectic, Rain Garden
Other Features:
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Cut Foliage, Mass Planting
