Garden hybrid
This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.
2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Monarda x hybrida 'Leading Lady Plum' is a perennial herbaceous plant with a bushy habit, featuring aromatic, serrated green leaves and striking, tubular flowers in a deep plum hue that attract pollinators.
This cultivar is renowned for its vibrant, long-lasting flower display and its ability to tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for attracting bees and hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and pollinator attraction.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems
- Fertilize annually with organic compost
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum questions
What zones can Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum grow in?
Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum 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 Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum deer resistant?
Yes — Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum bloom?
Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum 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 Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum need full sun?
Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Monarda to compare
Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa
'Jacob Cline' Bee Balm
Monarda didyma 'Jacob Cline'
Rockin' Raspberry Bee Balm
Monarda didyma 'Rockin' Raspberry'
Bradbury's bee balm
Monarda bradburiana
Raspberry Mint Bee Balm
Monarda didyma 'Raspberry Wine'
Bee-Happy Bee Balm
Monarda didyma 'Bee-Happy'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Bee Balm Leading Lady Plum 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.