Monarda hybrid 'Fireball' PP14235

– Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

– Foliage is deer and rabbit resistant, making it suitable for areas with wildlife pressure

– Foliage provides interest from spring through fall

– Primary bloom in mid to late summer; potential for extended bloom with proper care

– Red accent borders
– Wildlife-friendly spaces
– Tea and medicinal herb gardens
– Summer color beds

– Dark green, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated edges

– Aromatic foliage emits a minty fragrance when crushed

– Bright scarlet-red, tubular flowers arranged in dense, globular terminal heads

– Bloom time: Mid to late summer

– Flowers are excellent for cutting and add a vibrant touch to arrangements

– Plant in spring or early fall to allow roots to establish before extreme temperatures

– Choose a location with full sun exposure; at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily

– Prefers well-drained, fertile soils with moderate moisture

– Space plants 18–24 inches apart to accommodate mature spread

– Mulch lightly to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds

– Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming

– In early spring, cut back old foliage to promote fresh growth

– Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain plant vigor

– Water regularly during establishment

– Once established, maintain moderate moisture; avoid overwatering

– Drought-tolerant to some extent but performs best with consistent moisture

– Thrives in full sun

– Can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced

– Harvest flowers when fully open for optimal vase life

– Cut stems in the morning after dew has dried

– Place in water immediately to maintain freshness

– Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring

– Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms

– Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers

– Enhances biodiversity in the garden and supports pollinator populations

– Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) for complementary color and pollinator attraction

– Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' for vertical accents and a cohesive purple palette

– Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' for contrasting yellow blooms and similar cultural requirements