A unique-looking perennial which produces whorls of vibrant red, tube-shaped blooms surrounded by deep red bracts throughout the summer, if deadheaded regularly. The beautiful blooms of Monarda ‘Cambridge Scarlet’ sit proudly upon its rigid, vertical stems and will attract plenty of bees. This showy Bergamot will grow happily in a variety of soils, in full sun or dappled shade and makes a perfect addition to wildlife gardens and herbaceous borders. The leaves have a citrus-like scent and can be enjoyed in salads or dried to make potpourri and the blooms make a stunning cut flower display.Height: 90cm (35in). Spread: 45cm (18in).Culinary note: Use the dried leaves to make Bergamot tea or use the sweet, spicy flavoured petals to enhance salads, jellies, rice or pasta dishes.
Growing Information
Bergamot plants dislike soils which are particularly dry or have a tendency to waterlogging. Plant them in a moist, well drained soil, adding compost or well rotted manure to amend excessively heavy clay or sandy soils. Choose a position in sun.
