Perennials
Monarda didyma 'Pardon My Purple'
Pardon My Purple bee balm
Fuchsia-purple flowers top a compact, aromatic mound. Grow in rich garden soil with good drainage.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun to part shade
- Mature size
- 10–12 in. tall × 10–12 in. wide
- Water
- Moderate; evenly moist
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–8
- Bloom
- Fuchsia purple; summer.
Sizes & prices
- #1Call for price
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Resistant, not browse-proof.
- Drought
- Water during dry spells.
- Wet soil
- Moist, well-drained soil; avoid standing water.
- Powdery mildew
- Resistant, not immune; allow air circulation.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Native range
- Native range / parentage
- Cultivar of a North American native species. Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
- Tristate native status
- Cultivated selection of a Kentucky-native species; not wild local stock.
Growing & care
- Spacing
- Allow air circulation; mildew can still occur.
- Maintenance
- For stem-nesting bees, leave sound dead stems standing 12–24 inches tall until they break down naturally. Avoid overhead watering to limit mildew.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: 'Pardon My Purple' Bee Balm Monarda didyma, Photo courtesy of Proven Winners · Authorized promotional use
Reviewed September 19, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.