Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop

Description

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop, also known as Bee Balm, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to North America and is widely cultivated for its showy flowers and aromatic leaves. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of up to 2 feet. It produces clusters of tubular flowers that are typically pink or purple in color, but Lilac Lollipop is a unique variety that has beautiful lilac-colored blooms. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop has a bushy habit and grows up to 3 feet tall. The stems are square and hairy, and the leaves are dark green and aromatic. The leaves are lance-shaped and toothed, and they grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are produced in dense, spherical clusters that are up to 3 inches across. Each cluster contains dozens of individual flowers, and each flower is tubular and about 1 inch long. The flowers are a beautiful shade of lilac, and they have a sweet, minty fragrance.

Care Guide

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:

Water

Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop prefers moist, well-drained soil.

Fertilization

Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth and decreased flower production.

Soil

The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soil.

Sunlight

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, treat it with a fungicide.

Habitat

Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop is native to North America and is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and woodland edges. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop can be grown in containers, but it will need regular watering and fertilizing to perform well.

Q: How often should I prune Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop?

A: Prune the plant in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also pinch back the stems in early summer to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

Q: Is Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop deer resistant?

A: Yes, Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop is generally deer resistant, although deer may occasionally browse on the leaves or flowers.

Q: Can Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop be propagated by division?

A: Yes, Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the clumps, making sure each division has several healthy stems and roots.

Related Plants

• Monarda Didyma
• Monarda Fistulosa
• Monarda Punctata

References

• “Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287011&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=
• “Monarda Didyma Lilac Lollipop.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/monarda-didyma-lilac-lollipop>
• “Monarda Didyma.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 20 May 2021. <https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/monarda-didyma>