Monarda 'Bubblegum Blast'
Monarda 'Bubblegum Blast' is a vibrant bee balm selection with bold bubblegum pink flower clusters that bloom through midsummer. Its upright habit and fragrant foliage bring strong color and movement to sunny borders while providing excellent pollinator activity during peak summer.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun
Soil Preference: Average to moist well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This monarda is a cultivated selection derived from North American native species and retains many of their ecological benefits while offering improved color and garden performance.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Highly attractive to hummingbirds which feed from the tubular flowers throughout its midsummer bloom.
Butterflies
- Draws in Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Painted Ladies seeking nectar from the bright clustered blooms.
Bees
- Supports native bees and bumblebees which visit frequently for nectar and pollen.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow good air circulation and reduce overcrowding.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic plantings where its bold color and upright habit create a strong seasonal display.
Companion Plants
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Adds upright structure and rich foliage tones that contrast with the bright blooms.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Extends pollinator interest with large summer flowers that pair naturally with monarda.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Provides bold yellow flowers that complement the pink tones.
- Phlox paniculata 'David' (Garden Phlox) - Offers upright white blooms that blend well in midsummer plantings.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Brings vertical spikes and earlier color to layer with the later bloom.