Monarda didyma 'Donnerwolke' - Bee Balm / Bergamot

Also known as 'Donner Wolke', meaning "Thundercloud".

Monarda 'Donnerwolke' is a clump-forming perennial boasting masses of shaggy rich violet purple flowers that rest on a whorl of decorative bracts. Long flower period from mid summer to early autumn. Even after the petals have fallen, the seed heads can remain a feature into winter. The leaves are deep green and have a delicious mint fragrance and are used in teas.

Grow Monarda in moist, humus rich soils in a sunny position. I have mine growing near a lilac tree. Keep it moist in active growth and dead head flowers regularly to extend the bloom season. Mulch in summer to help with water retention. Do not allow these plants to dry out. Divide every few years to keep air flow around the plants. Height 90cm.

This variety is noted for its good resistance to mildew compared to other varieties.

Monarda 'Donnerwolke' is an excellent, fragrant, and long-blooming cut flower. Harvest flowers early in the morning and then dip the ends in boiling water for 7-10 seconds.

Sow seeds during autumn or winter as they need cold conditions (cold stratification) for around 6 weeks. I recommend sowing seeds into pots due to the small size of the seeds. Sprinkle seeds on top of the soil and water. Keep seeds damp but not wet. Seeds will germinate when temperatures are around 20C. Grow plants to around 10cm in height, harden off and plant out.

Seeds currently available.

$5.00 - 20 open pollinated seeds

$4.00 - postage within Australia

Email to order - fascinatingbotanicals@gmail.com

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