Bergamot, Bee Balm - MONARDA Didyma Pink Lace

Monarda didyma 'Pink Lace'

A Stunning Pollinator-Friendly Perennial for Your Garden

Monarda didyma 'Pink Lace,' commonly known as Bergamot or Bee Balm, is a delightful perennial that brings elegance and vibrant colour to UK gardens. Renowned for its frilly pink blooms and aromatic foliage, this compact variety is perfect for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly spaces.

From midsummer to early autumn, 'Pink Lace' produces a profusion of soft pink flowers on upright stems, creating a striking display of colour. These blooms are a magnet for bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for gardeners keen to support local wildlife. The slightly mint-scented leaves add an extra layer of appeal, perfect for herbal teas or simply as a fragrant feature in your garden.

Why Grow Monarda 'Pink Lace'?

• Eye-Catching Blooms: Soft pink flowers bring months of vibrant colour to your garden.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
• Fragrant Foliage: Aromatic, mint-scented leaves are ideal for teas or as a sensory feature.
• Compact Growth: Perfect for smaller gardens, patio containers, or mixed borders.
• Long-Lasting Colour: Flowers from midsummer through early autumn for extended seasonal interest.

Care Instructions

Light Requirements:
Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, particularly in warmer or sheltered spots.

Soil:
Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Suitable for loam, sandy soil, or multipurpose compost.

Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, especially in dry spells. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant.

Fertilizer:
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to encourage lush growth and blooming.

Pruning:
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong the blooming season. Cut back stems to ground level in late autumn or early spring to encourage fresh growth.

Planting Advice:

• Space plants 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to ensure proper air circulation and prevent powdery mildew.
• Takes 1–2 years to fully establish.

Winter Care:
Fully hardy in UK climates. Add mulch around the base in colder regions to protect the roots from frost.

Plant Details

• Botanical Name: Monarda didyma 'Pink Lace'
• Common Name: Bergamot, Bee Balm
• Flower Colour: Bright pink
• Foliage Colour: Mid-green, aromatic
• Mature Height: 50–60 cm
• Mature Spread: 30–50 cm
• Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• Hardiness: Fully hardy (UK Zones)
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Acidity: Neutral to slightly acidic
• Soil Moisture: Moist but well-drained
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Scented: Yes (foliage)
• Pollinator-Friendly: Yes

Where to Use Monarda 'Pink Lace'

• Perfect for borders, cottage gardens, and wildlife-friendly gardens.
• Thrives in patio pots or mixed perennial beds for a burst of colour.
• Excellent as a cut flower for fresh summer arrangements.

Monarda didyma 'Pink Lace' is a quintessential addition to UK gardens, offering soft beauty, aromatic foliage, and a haven for pollinators. Add this low-maintenance perennial to your garden for a vibrant and eco-friendly touch!