July Perennial of the Month-Bee Balm
The alliums have gone dormant. The lilies are spent. Even the spring bulb foliage has withered away. The season seems to be speeding along even though summer has only officially started… Why does your garden seem dull and “done?”
If this dilemma describes your garden, the solution is easy: bee balm.
Bee balm (Monarda spp. and cultivars) is also commonly known as bergamot or simply Monarda, its botanical name. The common name “bee balm” refers to the plant’s association with bees. The plant was used medicinally to help soothe bee stings, but it also appears to be catnip for bees. I might not see many bees in my garden until the bee balm blooms, and then, wowzers. Butterflies and hummingbirds also like bee balm’s tubular flowers, making it a great addition to any garden.
Depending on the species or cultivar, bee balm comes in a variety of colors, typically shades of red, pink, or purple. The heights can vary from 1′ to over 5′ tall. RESEARCH before you buy!
Regardless of size or color, most bee balm prefers full sun to partial shade. Keep in mind that more shade might result in “leaners” that grow at angles, trying to reach more light, and leaners are more likely to turn into “floppers” once it rains. Rich, well-drained soil is preferred, but bee balm is tolerant of most soils. Bee balm spreads into large masses by underground runners and by reseeding. I don’t consider it a thug or invasive, but something to prepare for when you plant it.
What I love about this plant;
–Native species are available such as Monarda bradburiana, M. clinopodia, M. fistulosa, and M. punctata.
-Lots of nativars/cultivars are available depending on your color or size wants.
-Excellent pollinator plant!
-Deer and rabbit resistant.
What’s not so great;
-Prone to powdery mildew. Providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help. Research for more resistant cultivars, or just learn to live with it. It’s not usually fatal!
-Taller bee balm is known to flop, especially after a rain. Invest in some supports that can be added after the plant is in bloom, if you are like me and tend to forget to add them before the plant gets too tall.
-Being in the mint family, bee balm can spread and get into the other plant’s business since it spreads by underground runners as well as reseeding. Easy enough to pull and keep in bounds.
-Comments or questions? Email Garden-Lou at gardenloustl@gmail.com
Words and photos by Jo Batzer
© Jo Batzer, garden-lou.com-2025, All rights reserved.
