Bee Balm / Bergamot 'Squaw'

'Squaw' is a vibrant and vigorous cultivar of Monarda didyma that is particularly well-suited to the UK climate due to its improved resistance to powdery mildew, a common problem for this genus in British summers. It produces spectacular, shaggy, bright scarlet-red flowers that are held in terminal whorls on sturdy stems. The foliage is dark green and aromatic, with a scent reminiscent of Earl Grey tea; both the leaves and the edible flowers can be used to make herbal infusions or to add a spicy note to salads. It is an outstanding plant for attracting pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, to the garden. It prefers a position in full sun or light dappled shade and, crucially for the UK, requires soil that stays moist throughout the summer. It is a herbaceous perennial that spreads to form a substantial clump and provides excellent mid-to-late summer interest in a mixed or herb border. Deadheading will prolong the flowering period and keep the plant looking tidy.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.