Spotted Beebalm, Monarda punctata
Spotted Beebalm is a distinctive native perennial with showy clusters of creamy purple-spotted tubular flowers surrounded by eye-catching pink, lavender, or creamy bracts that create a unique pagoda-like appearance. This aromatic member of the mint family blooms from early to mid-summer and adds whimsical complexity to gardens, prairies, and meadows. The deep green aromatic foliage can be used to flavor teas.
Ecology:
This plant is an exceptional pollinator magnet, attracting scores of butterflies, native bees, and hummingbirds with its abundant nectar. Spotted Beebalm serves as an important host plant for several moth species, including the raspberry pyrausta moth. The seeds provide valuable food for birds during winter months. The aromatic foliage is naturally deer and rabbit resistant.
Growing conditions:
Spotted Beebalm thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers sandy, well-drained soil. This drought-tolerant native performs best in medium-moist to dry conditions and is more tolerant of sun and drought than other bee balms. Ideal for sunny slopes, rocky outcroppings, and dry-mesic prairies. Short-lived perennial or biennial that often self-seeds. Salt-tolerant and requires minimal water except during extreme drought.