Spotted Beebalm

Monarda punctata

Similar to its relatives, Spotted Beebalm has flowers present in its classic ‘firework’ display but varies in that it is smaller, with purple/maroon spotted yellow flowers and distinct pink leaf bracts between each stacked whorl. Flowers that are a favourite amongst many pollinators including native bees, wasps, bumblebees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Very easy to grow, this plant is a hit in any garden. Spotted Beebalm tends to be shorted lived than its Monarda cousins, but often self seeds to replenish itself. This variety also enjoys sandy drier soils than other Monardas.

Thanks for it’s scented foliage, Spotted Beebalm is usually ignored by herbivores such as deer and rabbits.

Being a member of the mint family, Spotted Beebalm spreads by runners forming stunning colonies. I have not found it to be overly aggressive in my gardens and is easy to reign in by lifting runners (close to the soil surface) and cutting them back, or re-routing them back into the patch. As with many of the Monardas, Spotted Beebalm can be susceptible to powdery mildew, but it will not harm the plant.

Traditional uses for the this plant, along with others in the Monarda family, include teas, herbal remedies for bee sings, etc.