Bee Balm, or Monarda, is a North American native herb in the mint family. It flourishes in USDA zones 4-9, thriving in moist, well-drained soil with full sun. Known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, it has vibrant flowers in pink, purple, red, and white.
Known for its vibrant flowers, fragrant foliage, and ability to attract pollinators.
Native to North America and grows in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Woodland areas.
Prefers full sun, moist well-drained soil, and requires regular watering.
Bee Balm, known scientifically as Monarda, offers numerous uses and benefits:
Combining beauty with functionality, Bee Balm is an essential addition for any nature-conscious gardener.
Cultivation Tips
To ensure a thriving Bee Balm garden, follow these simple yet effective cultivation tips:
By adhering to these tips, your Bee Balm will not only thrive but also attract a host of pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
Bee Balm produces slender, tubular flowers in 2- to 3-inch-wide flower heads during June and July3. Even when not flowering, it retains its attractiveness by attracting birds through its seed heads during winter1.
Bee Balm, or Monarda, has a rich history and folklore that connects it to Native American traditions. Native tribes used it for medicinal purposes, such as treating colds and flu, adding it to teas for its soothing properties1.
Folklore suggests that Bee Balm, also known as Oswego Tea, was used by settlers as a substitute for imported tea during the Boston Tea Party1. Its aromatic leaves became a beloved element in colonial herb gardens, symbolizing resilience and independence.
1. “Bee Balm: Care & Growing Guide – The Spruce”, https://www.thespruce.com/bee-balm-growing-guide-5204121
2. “Bee Balm Guide: How to Grow & Care For Bee Balm Plants – GardenBeast”, https://gardenbeast.com/bee-balms-guide/
3. “Bee Balm: How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Bee Balm Flowers | The Old …”, https://www.almanac.com/plant/bee-balm
4. “Monarda didyma (Beebalm, Bee Balm, Bee-balm, Bergamont, Bergamot …”, https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/monarda-didyma/
5. “How To Plant Bee Balm And Bee Balm Care – Gardening Know How”, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bee-balm/bee-balm-care.htm
Image Credit: JessicaJoh
Image Credit: JessicaJoh
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Nicolas Duval
Nicolas is a passionate advocate for nature and the art of wildcrafting. His dedication shines through in Wildcraftia, a website he meticulously crafted to serve as a haven for nature enthusiasts worldwide. Driven by a deep appreciation for nature’s connection to humanity, Nicolas embarked on his journey in 2011 with SmokableHerbs, a platform showcasing his love for nature’s bounty. Building upon this foundation, he established Smokably, a thriving online store offering premium herbs and blends to a global audience.