Monarda hybrida “Lambada” – Colorful and Bee-Friendly Summer Flowering

Monarda hybrida, also known as Bergamot or Oswego Tea, is a spectacular perennial garden plant known for its bright colors, fragrant flowers, and attractiveness to pollinators. The "Lambada" cultivar was specially selected for its vibrant, intense flowers and compact, bushy growth, making it an ideal choice for borders, window boxes, pots, and cut flowers.

What is Monarda hybrida “Lambada”?

Monarda hybrida belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is a herbaceous perennial that typically grows to between 60 and 100 cm tall. The "Lambada" variety stands out for its bright, intensely colored flowers that adorn the garden in summer and early autumn. The plant combines visual appeal with ecological benefits by attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Characteristics of the plant:

• Flowers: Trumpet-shaped flowers in intense shades of red to pink, sometimes with subtle purple nuances, which add a lively touch to any border.

• Leaves: Bright green, oval to slightly serrated and aromatic; emit a pleasant minty scent.

• Stems: Sturdy and upright, ideal for borders and as a cut flower in bouquets.

• Growth habit: Bushy and compact, making the plant suitable for both garden beds and pot culture.

Applications in the garden

Monarda hybrida “Lambada” is versatile and can be used in various ways:

• Borders and flower beds: Add height, structure and vibrant colour.

• Pots and terraces: Perfect for terraces, balconies and patios thanks to its compact but bushy growth.

• Cut flowers: Long-lasting flowers suitable for bouquets and flower arrangements.

• Ecological value: Attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, which contributes to a biodiverse garden.

Breeding and care

Monarda hybrida is relatively easy to maintain provided that a few basic conditions are followed:

• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade; optimal flowering in sufficient light.

• Soil: Nutritious, well-drained soil; rich in organic matter.

• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist; avoid soggy conditions.

• Temperature: Hardy in temperate climates; mulch for extra protection in harsh winters.

• Care: Remove wilted flowers regularly to prolong flowering. Prune in spring for compact, healthy growth.

Health and ecological benefits

• Attract pollinators: Ideal for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

• Aromatic Leaves: Traditionally used for tea and light herbal applications.

• Long-lasting blooms: Creates a colorful flower bed from summer to early fall.

• Decorative: Increases visual appeal and structure in the garden.