Monarda didyma 'Red Shades' - 2026

Monarda didyma 'Red Shades' is a striking perennial that brings a bold splash of red to any garden. Its vibrant tubular flowers, forming dense clusters atop upright stems, bloom profusely from mid-summer to early autumn. The aromatic, lance-shaped foliage provides a pleasant backdrop, enhancing both the visual and sensory appeal of the plant. This cultivar is particularly valued for its resistance to powdery mildew, making it a reliable and low-maintenance choice for UK gardens. Its upright, clump-forming habit ensures it fits beautifully into borders, mixed plantings, and pollinator-friendly areas.

Ecologically, 'Red Shades' is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity. The aromatic leaves, reminiscent of mint, can also be used to flavour teas or add fragrance to gardens. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, establishing quickly and thriving with minimal maintenance in most UK garden conditions.