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Herbs - CulinaryHerbaceous Perennial

Monarda didyma Dancing Bird ('Allmobird'PBR)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

bergamot [Dancing Bird]

A clump-forming perennial to around 50cm tall with aromatic, toothed leaves and in summer, whorled clusters ofdeep pinkish-red flowers

Synonyms
Monarda didyma 'Allmobird'PBR
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Red Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Monarda can be annuals or clump-forming herbaceous perennials with aromatic, ovate leaves and terminal whorls of 2-lipped, tubular flowers from summer to early autumn

Name status

Trade

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring, before new growth begins, or by basal softwood cuttings in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Prairie planting
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required, though deadheading may prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

Monardas may be affected by powdery mildews, especially in hot, dry summers; this cultivar is said to be mildew-resistant

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