Monarda punctata aka Bee Balm

Monarda punctata belongs to the mint family. It is a perennial, but lives for only a short time. People call it spotted beebalm or horsemint. It is native to the central and eastern United States. Its range extends into northeastern Mexico. It grows in prairies, sandy ground, and rocky woods. It also grows on coastal plains. In Florida, it grows on moist coastal uplands too.

Plants grow in upright clumps. Their square stems may branch. Most garden accounts give heights of 1–2 feet [0.3–0.61 metres]. Clumps spread about 0.75–1 foot [0.23–0.3 metres] wide. Florida sources report heights up to 3 feet [0.91 metres]. They report spreads up to 4 feet [1.22 metres]. Rhizomes, or stems beneath the soil, help patches grow larger. The plant does not spread with much force. Stems may have hairs and purple, green, or brown tints. Narrow leaves have pointed tips and grow in opposite pairs. Leaf edges may be smooth or toothed. The leaves smell like oregano. They die back with the seasons.

Small flowers form tubes with two lips. Their pale yellow petals have purple spots. Blooms circle the stems in several possible tiers. These tiers grow near stem tips and leaf joints. Large bracts sit beneath the blooms. These leaf-like parts range from whitish to pinkish purple. They provide much of the flower show. Sources give bloom dates from June through September. Removing old blooms may make the bloom season last longer. Small nutlets, or dry fruits, have an egg shape. They form in brown heads during September and October. The fruit adds little to the garden's looks.

Grow spotted beebalm in full sun or some shade. It grows best in sandy soil that drains well. It tolerates loam, clay, and soil that is somewhat poor. Soil can be acidic to slightly alkaline. The plant copes with dry spells. Yet steady moisture helps it grow in better health. Water now and then during drought in fast-draining soil. Sources give USDA zones 3–8 or 4–9. It suits borders, meadows, and herb gardens. It also suits pots and large group plantings. Its stems provide cut flowers. Bees, butterflies, wasps, and hummingbirds visit its blooms. The larvae of several moths eat its leaves.

Deer tend to leave this plant alone. Crowded plants can develop powdery mildew and rust. Drought stress raises the risk of leaf disease. Thin the stems to let more air flow through. Clear old plant waste to help limit disease. Leaves can flavor raw or cooked foods and make tea. Records note past use for gut complaints and colds. People have also hung the scented plant indoors as incense. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards.