Feel free to love this gorgeous hardy perennial for everything it has to offer. Monarda 'Bee-Free' is so rewarding, not only because pollinators like bees and butterflies absolutely relish its nectar-laden blooms. But also because it’s easy to grow, produces a bushy plant which returns every year no-matter what the winter weather throws at it (as long as it’s not below -15°C temperatures!) and it is generally what is called a ‘good do-er’. Once established, Monarda 'Bee-Free' produces multiple flowers over a long period during summer, they are vibrant pink and slightly shaggy in texture which really makes them stand out in the garden.

The stems of Monarda didyma 'Bee-Free' are strong and upright and this variety is quite compact so it’s unlikely you’ll be needing to stake it. Just cut it back at the end of the season each autumn and wait for it to do it all again the following year, it will get better and better as the years roll by. Also known as bee balm, or bergamot, you’ll discover that it is an aromatic plant, particularly when the leaves are rubbed or crushed. Over time, this perennial will form a clump which produces more stems as it grows. Then, there should be plenty for picking and displaying in a vase indoors too!