Monarda didyma 'Purple Rooster' (Bee Balm)

'Purple Rooster' is a cultivar of Monarda didyma, a beebalm species known for its scarlet flowers; this cultivar instead produces striking true purple flowers that bloom from late spring well into the fall. Attractive to a number of native pollinators and hummingbirds, 'Purple Rooster' beebalm is an excellent addition to any garden. Rated as a 4.1 out of 5 possible points by Mt. Cuba Center, 'Purple Rooster' is well-regarded for its incredible purple color, upright habit which stands out among other Monarda, and its excellent pwodery mildew resisatance.

Monarda didyma 'Purple Rooster' typically grows to between two and four feet tall, and since Monarda is in the mint family, the cultivar is clump forming, but spreads much more slowly than some of its aggressive relatives. The leaves have a minty perfume scent, and can be used for teas and a variety of traditional folk medicines.