Bee balm is a native American plant not only known for its brightly-colored flowers and fragrant foliage. The flowers were used by North American Indians to make tea which were considered a useful treatment for colds, stomach aches, and insomnia. Bee balm produces slender, tubular flowers that bloom in June and July. Flower colors include white, pink, red, lavender, and purple. A perennial favorite native to North America, bee balm (aka wild bergamot) flowers in mid-to-late summer. This is attractive to pollinators like hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies! Monarda didyma, 115 days to maturity. 100 seeds per packet
It performs best in full sun. It will grow in partial shade but won’t flower as well and is more susceptible to powdery mildew. Provide moist, well-draining soil with a neutral pH. Harvest bee balm on a dry, sunny day by spreading stems out in a single layer on a drying screen for several days out of direct sunlight. Store dried pieces in glass jars in a cool dark spot.
For more tips and tricks on growing Bee Balm, be sure to check out our Growing Guide!
Bee Balm Planting Information
Planting Method: transplant or direct sow
When to Plant: after last frost in spring
Planting Depth: 1/4″
Seed Spacing: 18-24″
Row Spacing: 2′
Days to Maturity: 115 days
Disease Resistance: n/a
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