Monarda clinopodia aka Basil Beebalm

Monarda clinopodia is a perennial herb in the mint family. Its common names include white bergamot and basil beebalm. It grows wild in the eastern and central United States. Its range includes the Mid-Atlantic, Alabama, and Illinois. Wild plants grow in moist woods, thickets, and wooded ravines. They also grow beside streams, roads, and lightly shaded meadows. In North Carolina, it grows chiefly in the mountains.

Garden clumps reach about 2–4 feet [0.61–1.22 metres] tall and wide. NC State lists heights reaching 6 feet [1.83 metres]. Its listed spread is narrower, at 2–3 feet [0.61–0.91 metres]. The plant grows fast and forms upright stems. These stems have a square cross section. Stems and leaf stalks can show green or dark red tones. A few hairs may cover their upper parts. Green, oval leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Each leaf has shallow teeth along its edge. The leaves smell of mint when crushed or rubbed.

Flowers open from May through September at the stem tips. Each head bears many small, tubular blooms. The flowers are white or cream, with purple lower-lip spots. Each flower also has a narrow upper lip. Pale green bracts sit beneath the flower heads. These bracts may have purple veins down their centres. The blooms have a mild scent. Each head keeps flowering for about two or three weeks. Bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds visit for nectar and pollination. Brown seed heads form after the petals fall. They hold tiny, smooth, brown seeds.

Grow this plant in sun or partial shade. It prefers soil that stays moist but drains well. Soil rich in humus suits it best. It can grow in clay, loam, or sand. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Established plants tolerate dry soil and dappled shade. Cool mountain summers suit it well. It is hardy in USDA zones 5–8. Use it in borders, native gardens, or woodland-edge plantings. It also suits gardens grown for butterflies and hummingbirds.

Care needs are low, though stems may lean or flop. Stakes or upright neighbours can give them support. It resists powdery mildew, but good airflow still matters. Few pests or diseases trouble it, and deer tend to avoid it. NC State warns that it can become somewhat weedy. Grow new plants from seed or divide clumps in spring. Fresh or dried leaves and flower heads can make tea. NC State records past medicinal use by Native Americans. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses.