Monarda punctata – Spotted Bee Balm, Horsemint, Dotted Bee Balm

General Information: Dotted Bee Balm is a unique species in the Monarda genus. The overall appearance of the plant is quite distinctive and showy, bearing pale yellow flowers with purple spots, subtended by conspicuous pinkish-white leaf-like structures. Unlike other Bee Balms, the glory of this species isn’t in the flowers, but the small leaves surrounding each flower. These structures, known as bracts, showcase an unexpected pink tinge that adds flair from afar. The bracts conceal the dainty cream-yellow flowers with reddish polka dots. A native selection with edible, medicinal, and ecological benefits. Dotted Bee Balm is a Tripple Brook Farm favorite!

Edible Qualities: The leaves make a flavorful tea, high in thymol content, with an interesting flavor profile similar to Mint and Oregano.

Cultivation Details: Flowering persists for a long period from mid-summer through fall. The plant forms loose colonies that allow other plants to grow between the stalks. As with many members of the Mint Family, the plant showcases square stems, and flowers with two upper structures and three lower structures which encourage pollination. An uncommon but striking addition to any herb garden, meadow, pocket prairie, border planting, or cottage garden. Very attractive to pollinators. Commonly found in prairies and coastal plains all over the Eastern US. Occasionally susceptible to powdery mildew when planted in moist soils.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to part shade. Prefers sandy soils. Once established, the plants are drought tolerant. Uniquely tolerant of dry sites. Does not tolerate clay soils. Does not tolerate wet soils. Suitable for mildly acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.

Fun Facts: The Monarda genus was named in honor of the 16th century Spanish physician and botanist, Nicholas Monardes (1493-1588).