perennialN. America Native

Purple Rooster Bee Balm

Monarda didyma 'Purple Rooster'

$12.95

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact cultivar known for its vibrant purple blooms and aromatic foliage, attracts pollinators.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its resistance to powdery mildew and its extended blooming period.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesMonarda didyma 'Purple Rooster' provides striking purple flowers that attract pollinators, adding vibrant color and fragrance to gardens.
Practical UsesIts aromatic leaves can be used in teas and herbal remedies, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
SpeciesMonarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$12.95
<1 Gal Pot
In Stock$14.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
  3. Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure for vigorous growth.
  4. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
  5. Apply organic fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for optimal blooms.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for vibrant, long-lasting blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth
  • Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
  • Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter
  • Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
  • Don’t ignore pest signs or disease symptoms

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Harvest
Mulch
Pest Check
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant perennial borderFragrant herb gardenPollinator-friendly garden

Companion Plants

EchinaceaSalviaBlack-eyed Susan Lavender Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Rooster Bee Balm questions

What zones can Purple Rooster Bee Balm grow in?

Purple Rooster Bee Balm is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Rooster Bee Balm deer resistant?

Yes — Purple Rooster Bee Balm is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Rooster Bee Balm bloom?

Purple Rooster Bee Balm typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Rooster Bee Balm need full sun?

Purple Rooster Bee Balm does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Purple Rooster Bee Balm with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.