Upscale Lavender Taffeta Bee Balm

Upscale® ‘Lavender Taffeta’ is a compact, clump-forming bee balm selected for lavender-purple flowers and an extended summer display. Its branching stems carry a second flush of bloom above shiny, dark-green foliage. ## Garden use This cultivar reaches about 22–26 inches tall and 28–30 inches wide. Its fragrant flowers and foliage, purple color, and tidy clump suit borders, containers, cut-flower gardens, and mass plantings. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds visit the blooms, while deer tend to avoid the plant. The [Proven Winners plant profile](https://www.provenwinners.com/plants/monarda/upscale-lavender-taffeta-bee-balm-monarda-hybrid) identifies the selection as Monarda hybrid ‘Lavender Taffeta’ and lists USPP 35,192 and Canadian PBRAF protection. ## Growing conditions The developer rates it for USDA zones 4a–8b, with part sun to sun and average water. Rich, moist soil is preferred, though the profile notes that ordinary garden soil also works. The plant flowers in mid-summer, with the second flush helping extend the display. ## Maintenance Keep soil from drying out and allow air to move freely around the clump. The developer specifically recommends good air circulation to help prevent disease; use the stated mature spread when spacing plants.