Monarda ‘Cambridge Scarlet’

Bergamot are unusual-looking but hardworking perennials that deserve a place in any herbaceous border or wildlife garden. Stiff, upright stems bear distinctive whorls of tubular flowers that are a magnet for bees and bloom almost continuously from June to September with regular deadheading. An enduringly popular heritage variety, Monarda ‘Cambridge Scarlet’ bears whorls of rich deep scarlet flowers, beautifully offset by bronze-tinged foliage. The flowers make an excellent addition to bouquets and the citrus-scented leaves can be eaten in salads or dried and used to make pot pourri. Unfussy about soil type and thriving anywhere from full sun to dappled shade, this reliable perennial will quickly form a dense clump that associates beautifully with ornamental grasses and purple-leafed plants. Height: 90cm (35in). Spread: 45cm (18in).

Culinary note: Use the dried leaves to make Bergamot tea or use the sweet, spicy flavoured petals to enhance salads, jellies, rice or pasta dishes. For more details about edible flowers click here.

Plant height and spread is seasonal therefore we list by pot size rather than a defined plant size. The height and spread of the plant delivered will vary depending on the season, meaning arrival images are an indication only.