beebalm Interesting Notes

This drop-dead red variety was found growing wild near the Blue Ridge Parkway by a Georgia plantsman who knew he had a good thing when his discovery proved to be quite the powdery mildew resistant strain. With its wonderfully aromatic foliage, typical mint family square stems, and enormous red tubular flowers, Monarda ‘Jacob Cline’ is a show stopper as it blooms from late June to August. Growing 3-4’ tall and 2’+ wide, ‘Jacob Cline’ is named after the discoverer’s son and the garden designer, Jean Cline, and was introduced to the trade by Saul Nursery.

Monarda didyma grows in full sun in wet meadows, moist open woods, woodland borders, thickets and disturbed sites. The plants require average to moist soil with good drainage. Originally found from Quebec to Maine to Georgia to Minnesota and Missouri. It is most densely found in montane habitats following the Appalachian Mountain range from Maine to Pennsylvania to northern Georgia. The straight species is an aggressive grower once it is settled into the garden and should be placed in an area where it may be free to roam or is held in check by other perennials with strong roots.

The bright red flower is a favorite among hummingbirds and long-tongued bees but watch carefully! Short-tongued bees access the long tubular flower by cutting right into the throat and drinking the nectar without pollinating the flower. Beebalm is a great plant for the wildlife garden, cottage garden, and in a naturalized garden where the plant can grow into a mass of blooms. Particularly wonderful when planted near a spot where one can observe its flowers, not just for the beautiful blossoms but also the wildlife attraction and how the seedheads dance in the early morning light after a frost. Monarda is deer and rabbit resistant.

Monarda didyma 'Jacob Cline' Growing and Maintenance Tips

Grow in full sun and average to moist soil with good drainage. Water well on planting and regularly until established. Drought tolerant and mildew resistant.

Good Substitutions

Monarda 'Petite Delight'

Monarda bradburiana

Monarda 'Raspberry Wine'

Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet'