Plant Red Velvet Beebalm for Its Height (and the Hummingbirds!)

'Red Velvet' is a new addition to the Upscale series of beebalm, or monarda. The beebalms in this series are shorter and healthier than older versions, but taller than recent introductions that were bred to be compact. With its moderate size, the heavy-blooming ‘Red Velvet’ is a good candidate for massing or for placing in the middle of a perennial border. Butterflies, hummingbirds and of course bees love beebalm.

Common name: 'Red Velvet' bee balm

Botanical name: Monarda ‘Red Velvet’

Exposure: Full sun to part shade

Related: Read all about growing beebalm.

Flowers: From mid- to late summer, 'Red Velvet' blooms in bright cerise-red.

Foliage: Mildew-resistant leaves emerge bronze in spring, then turn deep green.

Habit: This midsize monarda reaches about 32 inches tall and 36 inches wide, forming a clump of upright stems.

Origin: Monarda species are native to the eastern United States, where they grow in da p fields, woods and alongside waterways. The hybrid 'Red Velvet' was introduced by Proven Winners Perennials in 2023.

How to grow it: Beebalms grow in full sun or part shade and rich to average soil. They need a moderate amount of water. Full sun will keep the plant tighter in habit. 'Red Velvet' is resistant to powdery mildew, but it still benefits from a position with good air circulation. USDA Zones 4–8.

Image courtesy of Walters Gardens