Bee Balm and Pickerelweed: A Lovely Duo!

The beebalm Monarda fistulosa 'Claire Grace' alongside pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) growing alongside a small pond made for a lovely summer duo.

'Claire Grace' is a cultivar selected from a variation of the straight species of Monarda fistulosa. It ranked highly in Mt. Cuba trials for mildew resistance and butterfly appeal. Now in early September, it's long since finished blooming and instead is adorned with goldfinches eating its seed.

Meanwhile, the pickerelweed has been attracting hummingbirds all summer and is still blooming! Native to many counties in the eastern United States (to view a range map, search online for "bonap county pontederia"), it's a good grower that helps prevent algae buildup in the pond because it shades the pond and absorbs excess nutrients. If it were possible for me to choose a favorite plant, pickerelweed would be a contender!