Perennials

Bergamot 'Red Velvet'

Monarda

Monarda ‘Red Velvet’: 80 cm tall and 90 cm spread, sun to partial shade. Red flowers in July-August. Zone 4; choose soil compatible with its moisture needs.

Format

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Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Life cycle
Hardy perennial
Hardiness
Zone 4

Discover the plant

Common nameBergamot 'Red Velvet'
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusMonarda
CultivarRed Velvet
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameMonarda

With Monarda 'Red Velvet', the flower bed welcomes a plant with red-toned flowers. The foliage has bronze hues, to be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is July-August. The clump reaches approximately 80 cm in height and spreads 90 cm; use these dimensions to position the plant in the middle of the flower bed and in group plantings.

Soil choice is essential for Monarda 'Red Velvet': humiferous, retaining its freshness during growth, without stagnant water around the crown. The preferred exposure is full sun to partial shade. For Monarda 'Red Velvet', regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain fresh. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (full sun to partial shade) does not eliminate water requirements. Maintain 90 cm as a general spacing between plants; this helps preserve their shape and access for care. The indicated hardiness zone is zone 4, to be assessed according to your garden's conditions.

To maintain the interest of Monarda 'Red Velvet' after flowering, water at the base and limit the expansion of rhizomes when they encroach on neighboring plants. Monarda thrives in cool soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps promote foliage problems. For companion planting, consider daylilies, echinaceas, perennial geraniums in varieties with similar needs. The flowering period (July-August) and the 90 cm spread will serve as benchmarks for distributing other plants around this plant.

Monarde ‘Red Velvet’ — Monarda

Planting guide

From planting to establishment.

Spacing / density 35.4 inches
Best planting time Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing time for the roots to settle before the severe cold weather.
Propagation Division or separation of offsets by group, preferably when not in flower. Seedlings do not necessarily reproduce the characteristics of a named cultivar.
Growing method
Monarda 'Red Velvet': Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing the roots time to establish before the cold weather sets in. For Monarda 'Red Velvet,' regularly check the soil around the root ball: it should remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering based on rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate water requirements. Monarda thrives in cool soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps can lead to foliage problems.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Soil pH

Acid to neutral to alkaline; general indication of the botanical group

Care level

Regular maintenance

Watering

For ‘Red Velvet’ Bee Balm, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust watering according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water.

Soil type

Humiferous, retaining its freshness during growth, with no standing water around the crown

Fertilization

Fertilizer for flowering

Moisture

Regular cooling during growth

Seasonal care

Monarda ‘Red Velvet’: water at the base and control rhizome spread when they encroach on neighboring plants. During its flowering period (July-August), also look out for damaged stems and neighboring plants that might overshadow the clump.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

A stable, perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; size to be adapted to the format sold and adult development.
To try Monarda 'Red Velvet' in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (90 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the ground. Plan for winter protection of the container depending on your climate.
Monarde ‘Red Velvet’ — Monarda

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

32 inches (81.5 cm)

Width / spread

3 feet (91.5 cm)

Flower color

Red

Foliage color

Green

Foliage type

Deciduous in cold climates

Growth rate

Fast

Growth habit

Erected

Fragrance

Not documented for this selection

Bloom period

July-August
Monarde ‘Red Velvet’ — Monarda

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Associations to consider for 'Red Velvet' Monarda: daylilies, echinaceas, perennial geraniums. Choose varieties that tolerate sun to partial shade and comparable moisture; allow each clump its adult space.

Plants to avoid

Around 'Red Velvet' Monarda, be sure to avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Compatibility of light, water, and spread takes precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

Where to plant Monarda 'Red Velvet'?
Provide sun to partial shade and suitable soil (humus-rich, retaining moisture during growth, with no stagnant water around the collar). Monarda benefits from cool soil and good air circulation; overly dense clumps encourage foliage problems.
Where should I plant Monarda 'Red Velvet'?
Expect it to reach about 80 cm in height and 90 cm in width when mature. Allow about 90 cm between centers, to be adjusted based on the actual growth of the clump. This size is suitable for use in the middle of flowerbeds and for group planting.
When does Monarda 'Red Velvet' bloom?
The indicated period is July-August. The flower color is red. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, season, and plant establishment.
How to water and care for Monarda 'Red Velvet'?
For Monarda ‘Red Velvet’, regularly check the soil around the root ball: it must remain moist. Water at the base when the surface begins to dry and adjust the water supply according to rainfall; this exposure (sun to partial shade) does not eliminate the need for water. Water at the base and limit the expansion of rhizomes when they encroach on neighboring plants.
Can Monarda 'Red Velvet' be grown in a pot?
To try Monarda 'Red Velvet' in a container, choose a well-drained and stable pot, suitable for the root ball and its future size (90 cm). The substrate must remain moist; it will dry out faster than in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.