You can’t go wrong with a classic like Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham', this strong garden performer is so reliable that the RHS have giving it their Award of Garden Merit – a badge of honour which isn’t dished out without very good reason. Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' is a satisfyingly vigorous perennial which combines attributes like winter hardiness, unfussy nature, long-lasting flowers, benefits to bees, fragrance, and, not to mention absolutely smashing flowers in a pretty shade of pastel pink which are set off by the purple calyxes below. Bushy, aromatic foliage is a big part of what makes bee balm so special. On a warm day, the bergamot scent will sit in the air around it, or just rub the leaves when you’re in need of a sensory hit.

Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' prefers to be in a sunny position but will also tolerate light shade. This Bee Balm flowers for a generously long period during summer and into autumn, and is a hardy, clump forming perennial so it will return every year. Get your bare root off to a good start in a temporary pot and grow it on for a few months prior to planting it into a border once it has established enough growth and strength to handle more challenging garden soils and competition with neighbouring plants. Once it’s well anchored into its permanent place, it will usually romp away without any fuss. Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' can grow up to 1m tall, making it a good choice for planting in groups around the middle of a wide border or towards the back of a narrower space.