Remove all packaging straight away. Check the compost and water thoroughly if dry, then place the plants outdoors in a sheltered position or in a greenhouse.
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Melittis
'Royal Velvet Distinction'
bastard balm
Melittis 'Royal Velvet Distinction' is a quietly intriguing perennial, the sort of plant that rewards those who lean in for a closer look. Compact and clump-forming, this bastard balm grows to around 40cm tall and wide, making a refined choice for the front of a border, a lightly shaded path edge or a woodland-style planting. Its oval, deeply veined green leaves have scalloped edges and a softly hairy texture, matched by hairy stems with a gentle honey scent. Then, in late spring and early summer, Melittis 'Royal Velvet Distinction' lifts the scene with small whorls of orchid-like flowers, each one combining a dark purple lower lip with a clean white upper lip.
There is something rather painterly about Melittis 'Royal Velvet Distinction', as though each bloom has been given a careful brushstroke of ink and ivory. Plant it in humus-rich, well-drained soil in dappled shade or gentle sun, where its neat habit and scented foliage can be appreciated without shouting for attention. As a bastard balm, Melittis 'Royal Velvet Distinction' pairs beautifully with ferns, epimediums, hardy geraniums and spring bulbs, adding a poised note among softer leaves and naturalistic planting. Bees are likely to take an interest too, proving that good taste is not limited to gardeners. Elegant, aromatic and pleasingly uncommon, Melittis melissophyllum 'Royal Velvet Distinction' brings subtle distinction to small gardens and considered borders alike.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check each plant’s specifications. Hardy perennials can remain outdoors, while half-hardy and tender varieties should be kept frost-free until the risk of frost has passed.
Plant within a month, preferably sooner. Choose a suitable position, remove weeds and loosen the soil thoroughly, adding compost or well-rotted organic matter where needed.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and plant with the root ball level with the soil surface. Firm gently, water well and add a plant label.
Water regularly until established and whenever the soil feels dry during spring and summer. Feed container-grown plants fortnightly during active growth to encourage healthy flowering.
- Botanical name
- Melittis melissophyllum 'Royal Velvet Distinction' syn. 'Royal Crimson Distinction'
- Flower colour
- Purple, white
- Established height
- 30-50cm
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Spreading
Clump-forming - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant size
- 9cm root ball
- Plant spacing
- 9 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Free draining - Soil type
-
Loam
Clay
Loam-based compost
Sandy
Chalk - Suitable for
-
Borders
Container
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 2-3 years
Pollinator-friendly
Thrives in full sun
Perennial
Fully hardy
Low maintenance
Attracts wildlife
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