Bee balm, or monarda (Monarda spp.), is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. Like other members of this family, the leaves have a minty aroma. The name bee balm derives from the plant’s value in attracting native bees and bumblebees, and from common folklore that the crushed leaves could be applied topically to soothe bee stings. Bee balm is also commonly called bergamot or Oswego Tea, referring to the indigenous peoples of New York, who used the leaves to make tea. Bee balm is native to North America and is cultivated for its bright flowers, which attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. Depending on species, monardas are hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9.
The genus Monarda is a dicotyledon, or dicot, meaning it has two primary or rudimentary leaves. After the first leaves sprout, the plant usually grows 2 to 4 feet tall, with pairs of long, narrow leaves continuing to grow opposite one another all the way up the stem. Depending on the species and growing conditions, leaves may be light or dark green. The lower leaves may be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially under rainy conditions, and may turn yellow and drop off in times of drought.
Types of Monarda
Monarda varieties have many common names, often referring to the color of the flowers or scent of the flowers and leaves. Monarda didyma is also called red bergamot and has mildly citrus-scented leaves. Lemon bergamot, Monarda citriodora, has leaves that are strongly lemon-scented. Wild bergamot, Monarda fistulosa, has lavender or pink flowers and is native to almost all the United States. Different species of monarda may have a weedy habit in some areas while considered endangered in others.
Monardas Native to California
Monarda pectinata Nutt. and Monarda punctata L. ssp. punctata are the two types native to California. Both are commonly called spotted bee balm, though Monarda pectinata Nutt. is also commonly called horse mint, plains bee balm and pony bee balm. Monarda pectinata Nutt. is native to San Bernardino County, where it grows from July to September in rocky areas in Joshua tree, pinyon and juniper woodlands, at 3700 to 5000 feet in elevation. Both species can be grown in a sunny location in a home garden and should not be overwatered.
The leaves, stems and flowers are edible and, in addition to making tea, can be used in salads or as a garnish. Like other mints, tea made from bee balm leaves and flowers can soothe an upset stomach or help with insomnia. Herbalists also use bee balm to treat colds, sore throat, nausea, menstrual pain and other ailments. The leaves and flowers can be dried for use in potpourris.
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Monarda Didyma L.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Monarda Didyma L.; Scarlet Beebalm
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Monarda Pectinata Nutt.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Monarda Punctata L. Ssp. Punctata
- California Native Plant Society: Monarda Pectinata
- Alternative Nature Online Herbal: Bee Balm, Wild Bergamot
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