Monarda citriodora aka Lemon Beebalm
Taxonomy
Monarda citriodora, also known as lemon beebalm, lemon mint, or purple horsemint, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the southern United States and northern Mexico. This short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual or biennial, can reach a height of 60cm and has narrow, toothed, lance-shaped leaves that emit a refreshing lemon scent when crushed. The tubular, two-lipped flowers, which come in shades of white, pink, and purple, are arranged in tiered, globular clusters along the stem, surrounded by purplish bracts. Monarda citriodora's purple flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Common names
Lemon Beebalm, Lemon MintHow to care for Lemon Beebalm
Difficulty
Lemon Beebalm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Lemon Beebalm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Lemon Beebalm loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Lemon Beebalm prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Lemon Beebalm to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
Fertilizer
The Lemon Beebalm should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Lemon Beebalm grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Lemon Beebalm’s native range is Central and Southern N. America to Mexico.
More info:
Wikipedia
