spotted beebalm
Monarda punctata
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size18 to 24 inches tall9 to 12 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Yellow with purple spots
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Spotted beebalm (Monarda punctata) is a perennial for borders, pollinator gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry to average, sandy or loamy soil. The leaves smell like fine Greek oregano, and butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees visit the blooms. It can become aggressive, so give it room. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits.
Pairs well with Pale purple coneflower, Nodding onion, and Goldsturm black-eyed Susan.
Native range
United States.