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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 12 to 18 inches
Width: 12 to 18 inches
Flower color: Vibrant purple-pink, tufted flowers
Foliage color: Dark green, aromatic, and slightly toothed
Bloom time: Mid-summer to early fall
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; deadhead spent blooms, divide every few years to prevent mildew
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Perennials

Monarda didyma Grand Parade 'Arcade'

Grand Parade Bee Balm

Monarda didyma Grand Parade 'Acrade' is a compact variety of bee balm known for its vibrant violet-purple blossoms that bloom in mid to late summer. The tubular flowers are arranged in dense, striking clusters atop sturdy stems, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The vivid violet-purple blooms bring a splash of color and texture to garden spaces, making it a dynamic focal point during the blooming season.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid-summer to early fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Hummingbird Gardens
Containers

Companion plants

Hostas · Ferns · Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums

Design tip

Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.