Monarda 'Fireball' has scarlet purple flowers that grace its minty scented foliage. Great for both formal and naturalistic perennial borders, offering bold color in a manageable size.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate
Deer Resistance: High
Native Status
This compact cultivar is derived from North American Monarda species and maintains similar pollinator benefits with improved garden form and disease resistance.
Wildlife & Insects
Butterflies
- Smaller stature still draws butterflies such as Red Admirals and Fritillaries for nectar.
Bees
- Frequented by native bees and honeybees which favor its compact form and nectar rich blooms.
Hummingbirds
- Attracts Ruby Throated Hummingbirds to the intense red flowers during peak summer bloom.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart for good air circulation and vibrant groupings.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for smaller beds, containers, and the front of sunny borders with bright red accents.
Companion Plants
- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage) - Purple flower spikes complement compact red Monarda blooms.
- Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Yellow daisy like flowers enhance the color palette and fine texture.
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Adds fragrance and foliage contrast while drawing pollinators.
- Gaillardia aristata (Blanket Flower) - Hot colors and drought tolerance pair well with Fireball in sunny beds.
- Nepeta 'Walker’s Low' (Catmint) - Offers long blooming lavender blue flowers and soft mounding form.