Monarda citriodora aka Lemon Beebalm

Monarda citriodora is a mint-family herb called lemon beebalm. Other names include lemon mint and lemon horsemint. Its native range spans the central and southern United States. It also reaches northern and western Mexico. It grows in prairies, meadows, savannas, and along roadsides. It also grows on hills, slopes, and rocky limestone sites. Most sources treat it as an annual or biennial. RHS describes a short-lived perennial often grown that way.

Plants form upright clumps with stout, green, square stems. Short hairs cover the stems and both leaf surfaces. Garden plants reach 1–3 feet (0.3–0.9 m) in height. RHS gives an upper height of 3.3 feet (1 m). Spread is often 0.7–1 foot (0.2–0.3 m). RHS allows up to 1.6 feet (0.5 m). The green leaves grow in opposite pairs on short stalks. Each leaf has fine teeth and a sharp tip. Their narrow shape ranges from lance-shaped to somewhat oblong. Crushed leaves release a lemon scent.

The scented flowers come in white, pink, and lavender-purple. Each small tube ends in two lips. Two to six rounded flower clusters ring the upper stem. Greenish or purple leafy bracts sit below each cluster. Bloom dates vary between the sources and their locations. NC State gives spring through the middle of summer. Chicago records July through October, with deadheading extending bloom. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds visit the flowers. Brown, dry fruits split into four small nutlets.

Full sun suits this plant, though it accepts partial shade. It prefers moist soil that drains well. Sandy loam and rocky limestone soils suit it. RHS also lists clay and a broad pH range. Keep summer soil from drying out, and avoid excess winter wet. Chicago lists USDA zones 3–7; RHS gives UK rating H5. Seeds can be sown in autumn or early spring. Plants can self-seed and build colonies where conditions suit them.

Use lemon beebalm in borders, herb beds, or meadow plantings. Its flowers also suit cutting and gardens for pollinators. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. Care needs are low, and pests seldom cause trouble. Powdery mildew remains a concern, while excess feed can cause flopping. Leaves add lemon flavour to raw or cooked foods. They also make tea and can scent potpourri. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. It lists leaf oil for insect repellents and perfume.