Monarda 'Donnerwolke'

The cerise pink flowers open in abundance on tall, straight stems. En masse, these shaggy blooms really are a sight to behold. The birds and bees love them and they open in profusion through summer and autumn.

Monarda 'Donnerwolke' leaves are mid to bright green and have a delicious mint fragrance when crushed. They are used medicinally and in teas.

Monarda 'Donnerwolke' has good mildew resistance. The name is Afrikaans for Thundercloud.

For best results grow Monarda in moist, humus rich soils in a sunny position. Keep plants watered in active growth. Regular dead heading of the flowers will extend the bloom season. Monarda are good plants for the back of borders.

Cut back spent flowers and foliage to tidy in winter. Alternatively you can leave the upright stems on display through winter and cut down when they begin to falter.