Monarda fistulosa menthifolia (Beebalm)
From CONPS: Beebalm has the square stem (feel it!), aromatic opposite leaves with toothed edges (margins), and tubular, two-lipped flowers characteristic of plants in the mint family. The pinkish-purple flowers of bee balm are clustered in a round head up to 3 inches wide. Yellow oil glands dot the surface of the deep green leaves and, when crushed, emit a fragrance similar to oregano. The plant can reach a height of 3 feet and tends to form clumps from its spreading, underground stems (rhizomes). It can be used as a substitute for oregano. Many culinary spices are in the mint family, including basil, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Thymol, which is found in beebalm, has been used as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and to treat hookworm. The Tewa used the plant to treat sore eyes, headaches, sore throats, and fever. Beebalm is a tall, showy perennial landscape plant that will grow in moist to slightly dry soil and full sun to light shade. It attracts bees, butterflies including painted ladies, and hummingbirds. Blooms June through August. Its shorter (1’ tall) relative, ponymint (p. 37), has white to pale pink flowers.
From “Native Plants for Birds” handout: Grows 1-4ft., prefers full to part sun and well-drained, moist soil. Blooms late Spring to Fall.
Also good for: insects, bees, and butterflies. Feeds: Hummingbirds, wrens, vireos, woodpeckers.
GIAB:
Mature Height: 2-3’
Mature Spread: 18-24”
Hardy To: 9,000’
Water: Low
Exposure: Sun
Flower Color: Lavender
Flower Season: Mid-Summer
Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Description: Native Bee Balm is widespread throughout valleys, prairies and mountains in western North America. A flowering member of the mint family, its signature lavender blooms make
it hard to forget. Historically, Native Americans transformed this beauty into a tea and used it to cure colds. Today, it is still desired for its medicinal and ornamental use, and its aromatic foliage is reminiscent of mint and bergamot orange. In general, this hardy perennial thrives best in moist to slightly dry soils in sunny, dry locations. Its drought resistant and easy-going nature make it a favorite among gardeners, and its delicious and attractive blooms make it a favorite among pollinators!
Care: If you want a bushier plant, then remove the stem tips to allow for new growth in early spring. In late fall, cut back the plant to just a few inches tall. Be sure to plant the Bee Balm where it will receive good air circulation and avoid overwatering, to prevent a powdery mildew that can hinder the plant’s health.
Fun Fact: “Medicinal” tea recipe: To 1 tsp. of dried Bee Balm, add
1 cup boiling water, steep 10 minutes, sweeten to taste, enjoy at bedtime.
