Monarda 'On Parade'

Bergamot, Monarda didyma, has distinctive flowerheads, each one consists of a large number of curving tubular flowers growing out from a central point, creating a shaggy dome of petals. The plant has a long flowering season, from early summer to early autumn, and blooms almost continuously if deadheaded periodically. Bergamot foliage is aromatic, and leaves are sometimes picked for pot-pourri. On soil that stays moist, plants can spread fairly quickly so clumps may need to be divided about every three years.

Monarda 'On Parade' is a standout magenta-flowered cultivar with good resistance to the powdery mildews that can affect monardas. It's also extremely attractive to bees.

Grow Monarda 'On Parade' in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Mulch around the roots with garden compost annually, and divide congested clumps in spring.