Monarda 'Purple Rooster' is a robust and mildew resistant bee balm that features intense royal purple flowers held on sturdy upright stems. Its compact clump forming habit and deep color provide strong architectural presence in borders and pollinator gardens. This variety is especially prized for its long bloom time, extending color in the landscape through midsummer.
Height & Spread: 36 - 42 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil; tolerates clay
Watering Needs: Average; water during extended dry spells
Deer Resistance: Highly deer resistant due to aromatic foliage
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from native Monarda didyma, a species native to North America. Though selected for improved performance it retains the ecological value of its native heritage.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Extremely attractive to native bumblebees, sweat bees, and honeybees due to its abundant nectar and long bloom time.
Butterflies
- Supports a wide range of butterflies including Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Monarchs, and Red Admirals.
Hummingbirds
- The tubular flowers are a favorite of Ruby Throated Hummingbirds which are drawn to their deep color and rich nectar stores.
Beneficial Insects
- Provides food and cover for parasitic wasps, hoverflies, and other natural pest predators.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to ensure airflow and maintain mildew resistance in summer humidity.
Landscape Placement:
- Plant in mixed perennial borders, pollinator strips, or native meadows for strong midsummer color and wildlife support.
Companion Plants
- Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop) - Tall spikes of lavender blue flowers echo Monarda’s vertical habit and attract similar pollinators.
- Pycnanthemum muticum (Mountain Mint) - Silvery foliage and clusters of soft pink blooms provide texture and attract beneficial insects.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Broad daisy flowers in purple pink shades pair well with the saturated hues of ‘Purple Rooster’.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Bright golden petals offer complementary contrast and extend bloom interest through late summer.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' - Rich violet flower wands provide a refined counterpoint to Monarda’s rounded blooms.