As its name implies, the exceptionally large, hot-pink blooms of 'Coral Reef'
have coral overtones. This Bee Balm has a habit similar to that of the great
favorite 'Marshall's Delight'. This tough and aromatic plant is great for
attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. It's also mildew resistant. Monarda,
a North American genus, has several species, all of which share tartly
fragrant foliage and the square stems that typify members of the Mint family.
The late-summer flower heads are hemispheres of tubular blooms in brilliant
colors. Plants thrive in full sun or partial shade and evenly moist soil
(which helps avoid mildew). Under these conditions, they are vigorous to the
point of invasiveness, perhaps past it. Deer resistant.