Monarda punctata aka Bee Balm

Caring for Bee Balm is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Bee Balm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Bee Balm 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.

To ensure optimal growth, the Bee Balm prefers bright indirect 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.

During the cold period, it is common for Bee Balm to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

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.

The Bee Balm 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.

The Bee Balm is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.

Bee Balm’s native range is N. America - Louisiana and Florida, north to Long Island.