Monarda 'Cambridge Scarlet'
bergamot
A well-established and deservedly popular variety, 'Cambridge Scarlet' was first introduced over 100 years ago. It's sought after for its long...
9cm pot
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3 × 9cm pots
£30.00
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Plant description
A well-established and deservedly popular variety, 'Cambridge Scarlet' was first introduced over 100 years ago. It's sought after for its long season of bright red flowers, which top the upright stems from midsummer. It looks gorgeous when planted en-masse in the middle of a sunny border, where its flowers will typically be smothered with butterflies and bees, and it associates particularly well with ornamental grasses.
Eventual height & spread
Flowering period
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Plant features
Position
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth
Average
Soil
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Fully hardy
How to care for Monarda Cambridge Scarlet:
Monarda are hardy, aromatic perennials that thrive in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil and a sunny or lightly shaded position. They dislike conditions that are too wet or too dry, so regular watering in prolonged dry so regular watering in prolonged dry spells is essential.
Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter in spring and again in autumn to help retain soil moisture and suppress mildew. Powdery mildew is a common issue, especially in dry or crowded conditions — improve air circulation by spacing plants well and removing congested growth after flowering.
Avoid cutting back in autumn, as the upright seed heads and stems add winter structure and interest. Instead, tidy up in early spring before new growth emerges. Lift and divide large or congested clumps every few years in early spring to maintain vigour and prevent dieback in the centre.
Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter in spring and again in autumn to help retain soil moisture and suppress mildew. Powdery mildew is a common issue, especially in dry or crowded conditions — improve air circulation by spacing plants well and removing congested growth after flowering.
Avoid cutting back in autumn, as the upright seed heads and stems add winter structure and interest. Instead, tidy up in early spring before new growth emerges. Lift and divide large or congested clumps every few years in early spring to maintain vigour and prevent dieback in the centre.
Please note:
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
