Enormous fiery red tufted flowers with a touch of blue and an unusual shape that appear on tall sturdy stems characterize this perennial.  Blooming from mid-summer through September on stems with dark green leaves, it also has the aromatic foliage that comes with being a member of the mint family. 

   Growing rapidly to 4-5' in partial shade, Jacob Cline will not be as aggressive in growth in full sun.  This monarda is one of the most mildew resistant monardas but thinning out stems to increase air circulation will help prevent any occurrence. It is happiest in moist fertile soil - when the soil gets completely dry, the plant becomes stressed. Cherished by butterflies and hummingbirds - resistant to deer. Useful as a cut flower in arrangements, as a tall addition to the perennial border, as a part of a meadow type setting, or as a companion to grasses or herbs. Its dense clump of foliage should be divided every 3-4 years.

   Masses of unusual flowers, like the Monarda above, also typify this perennial subshrub. It will flower all summer and produce flowers with a resemblance to a miniature bat - a dark purple face with red lobes for ears.  The plant will grow to a busy 2-3 feet high and wide. 

   Native to Mexico, it loves the summer/early fall heat.  It doesn't require a lot of water but doesn't like to dry out entirely.  Prefers full sun but will take partial shade.  Great in a container so that it can be moved to a protected area in the winter as it is hardy only to the low to mid 20's.  As a container plant, it can also be positioned where its unique flowers can be enjoyed close up.  Very attractive to hummingbirds.

Venidium Red, Achillea 'Moonshine', Gaura 'Whirling Butterflies', Helianthemum nummularium (various colors), Mimulus aurantiacus (soft gold...see left).

Mark your calendars... Markham's next Saturday Plant Sale is only several weeks away... June 19th from 10am-2pm. It promises to be one of the biggest of the year as the heat accelerates the plants that we have propagated for you.