![]() ![]() Tall, tubular flowers sit atop whorled stems. Lemon bee balm ( Monarda citriodora ) hails from the rocky prairies and dry pastures of northern Mexico and the southern U.S.Interbreeding species resulted in the development of at least 50 commercial cultivars of bee balm. ![]() Recommended Bee Balm Varietiesīee balm is a standout among plants that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It likes moist soil, but not “wet feet.”īecause Monarda spreads by self-seeding and underground rhizomes, it will need to be divided every few years to keep it looking its best. Preferring full sun, the fast-growing bee balm tolerates partial shade, particularly in hot regions, although it is not one of the best flowering plants for shade. Although this North American native perennial attracts more butterflies and hummingbirds than it does bees, it gets its name from historic use as an antidote for bee stings. A member of the mint family, it has a minty or citrusy scent that repels mosquitoes but attracts the pollinators it feeds, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Safety: Nontoxic to people and animals Bee Balm Characteristicsīee balm, or Monarda, displays loose, mop-like flower heads with tubular petals in red, pink, purple, or white. Propagation: Seed, stem cuttings, or division Water: Likes to be evenly moist, but not overly wet drought-tolerantįood: Balanced fertilizer or from soil amended with compost, manure, or other organic material Light: Full sun, but will tolerate part shade Soil: Rich, organic, well-draining soil pH 6.0 to 6.7 RELATED: 10 Types of Bees All Homeowners Should Know Growing Bee Balm at a Glance An easy-care plant, it can grow up to 4 feet tall, with a spread of 3 to 4 feet. ![]() Loved by gardeners because it’s one of the best hummingbird plants and also attracts butterflies, bee balm also curries favor for its fragrant foliage and whorled blooms in red, pink, purple, or white. ![]()
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