I didn't see the photos you speak of, but do know that both Raspberry Wine monarda and Magnus echinacea are "cool" colored plants. Some call it pink, some call it magenta; either way, they're both on the blue side of red rather than the yellow side.

So, when you choose your plants, you probably don't want to use yellow or pure red (such as the annual salvia that many people choose for the front of the border).

If you stay with other cool shades, such as blues and violets, along with neutral white and gray, I think you'll be happiest with your choices.

I have this same Monarda growing in my Butterfly garden. Companion plants around it are Echinacea "Ruby Red", Buddleia 'Dark Knight", Sedum "Brilliant", Coreopsis "Early Sunrise", and Caryopteris 'Longwood Blue'. I know there are more but that is all I can think of.

I hope this helps. We had tons of new butterflies visiting our garden after this new bed was two years established.

Heather

lovefornature, glad you enjoyed my picture. This year, I'm planning to add in Gaura "Siskiyou pink" and Dianthus "Artic Fire". Next to it, I have Helianthus "Scabra Summer Sun". However, I planted that very late last season, so I won't see the full effect until this summer.

I suspect that Moonbeam is going to be too light a yellow to stand up to the strong coloring of Summerwine.

To those of you who have Monarda, do you have trouble with it's adventurous habits? Mine spread so vigorously a few years ago, and I pulled it all out. I love the color, shape and height of it...if only I could find a variety which stood it's ground!

proudgrma, I have different monardas in all my beds and each year I just rip them back to a tidy clump. Since it is shallow rooted, if we have an open winter with no snow cover, I lose a lot of it. This winter we had snow all season so yes, the monarda has done some walking, but a few yanks and it is under control. Mary

He Deeje: There are tons of different Salvia that are not pure red. I was just wondering what would grow here in 5B (of course as an annual) and blend well with the Raspberry Wine Bee Balm and Coneflower. I want to plant something for hummingbirds there along with the Bee Balm they will love also.

Hi a2Mon: I have Marshall's Delight still in its tiny little container (not planted yet). Would that look good in between two Raspberry Wine's?

No-one thinks my Moonshine Yarrow would look good??

I am especially looking for something that would basically add color all early summer thru fall color for the front of the border in a few hours of full afternoon sun.

Thank you very much for the rest of the suggestions everyone has given. I will have to look up the plants and see what kind of sun they require.

My biggest problem is there is no-where in my front yard that gets a lot of sun. Big bummer, I am beginning to be sad :( ..........

Thanks again everyone :)

Companion plants for Raspberry Wine Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) include a variety of flowers and herbs that enhance growth, attract beneficial pollinators, or help deter pests. Some ideal companions are:

1. Echinacea (Coneflower) – Both plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
2. Black-eyed Susan – Complements bee balm's vibrant colors and attracts beneficial insects.
3. Yarrow – Helps deter pests and attracts beneficial predatory insects.
4. Phlox – Matches the blooming period and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
5. Lavender – Deters pests and provides complementary fragrance and color.

For a comprehensive guide, visit 13 Bee Balm Companion Plants.

You might not have noticed this is a thread that is 16 years old. And the original poster was looking for something that is pretty near impossible to find. She wanted more companions that hummers would use - and she didn't have full sun. A lot of plants that hummers use, need full sun and a lot of the companions for Monarda on your list....hummers don't use.