Jacob Cline is a classic strong tall, perfect red bee balm. In 2020, we visited the North Carolina Arboretum and saw Jacob Cline used in stunning effect. Situated Among coneflowers and other 2-3’  tall perennials the height of this monarda was perfect to rise 4-6” above the rest with puffs of scarlet red/orange. It was truly a magnificent display and helped us understand why Jacob Cline is still one of the prized Monarda among landscape designers. The beautiful dark green foliage of Jacob Cline has excellent resistance to powdery mildew.

Monarda is native to eastern North America, so it is a hardy plant that grows quickly, does well in a variety of soils and is easy to care for. The nectar in the flowers is a favorite of native pollinators. The foliage is aromatic, smells of crushed mint and can be used to flavor team or sparkling water. With their summer blooms come a menagerie of pollinators including bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and even the oft forgotten but very important flying beetles.

Photo Credit: Walters Gardens

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Monarda 'Jacob Cline'

In the wild Monarda can be found along riverbanks and as a result prefers rich soil, but it will grow in average soil as well. Full sun is best, but it will tolerate light shade, where it will spread more quickly, but be less dense and have fewer blooms. Monarda reproduce rapidly through underground rhizomes. They will also respond well to deadheading. Powdery mildew is a common fungal problem as it is best to purchase a cultivar that has resistance, at New Blooms we only carry resistant cultivars because powder mildew is common. As an additional preventative measure plants should be thinned out when they become overly thick - increasing airflow and soil should be kept moist with supplemental watering and a yearly application of mulch.