Monarda Punctata or Spotted Bee Balm, also known as spotted beebalm and horsemint, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to eastern Canada, the eastern United States and northeastern Mexico, can grow up to 3 feet tall. Both the leaves and flowers are edible with a fragrance that resembles a mix of mint and bergamot. The Monarda punctata produces elongated spikes of yellowish, purple-spotted, tubular flowers in whorls, surrounded by large and noticeable whitish, purple-tinged bracts. Monarda punctata is commonly used in herbal teas and to enhance salads and desserts. These plants are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, making them a fantastic addition to any garden.
Scientific Name: Monarda punctata
Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
Germination time in days: 14-21 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: well drained
Sowing and cultivation: Sow seeds indoors from March to May and keep soil temperature between 13-15C, They will need light to germinate. When large enough to handle, and after progressive exposure to outdoors temperatures, transplant them outside. Space plants by 45 cm in a well drained soil in a sunny spot.
