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| Jacob Cline Monarda American Meadows |
Monarda is a member of the mint family and consists of multiple species, most of which are hardy perennials and all of which are native to certain regions of North America. Summertime flowering on all these species is quite attractive to humans and pollinators.
Monarda is a genus that has a long history of being used as a medicinal herb. As the common name Bee Balm implies, it has also been used to soothe bee stings.
Did you know?
~ Native Americans used monarda to make bee balm tea to treat chills and fever.
~ Monarda’s three most common species are didyma, fistulosa and punctate.
~ Monarda is also known as Bee Balm, a member of the mint family,
~ Monarda Is very attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies and hummingbirds.
~Monarda is a native of North America, mainly east of the Rocky Mountains.
~ Dried monarda flowers are a great addition to any homemade potpourri.
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| Monarda Balmy Rose Bloom Ball Horticulture |
• While some Monarda species come from seed, did you know most newer selections are vegetatively propagated and are quite easy to care for in rich and organic, or just average soils?
• Monarda will die back to the ground in colder climates. They can then be cut back to 1-2 in. stems. It’s also a good idea to remove dead leaves and stems from the area, especially if mildew has been observed on the foliage.
• As Monarda emerges from the roots/rhizomes in the spring they may be pinched to create a bushier habit if desired.
• In the full sun, they will produce a plethora of brilliant flowers beginning in mid-summer. Pair these with Achillea, Agastache, or Phlox for a smooth transition of garden color into fall.
• As flowers fade, deadheading is beneficial to encourage additional flowering.
• The plant is deer and rabbit resistant.
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| Monarda Balmy Lilac National Garden Bureau |
Text credit: National Garden Bureau
For more information: year-of-the-monarda