Spotted Bee Balm
(Monarda punctata)

Spotted Bee Balm (Monarda punctata), also known as Dotted Beebalm or Horsemint, is a distinctive herbaceous perennial native to eastern North America. It typically grows between 1.5 to 2 feet tall, though in optimal conditions, it can reach up to 3 feet. The plant features branching, square stems and lance-shaped, aromatic leaves. Its unique flowers bloom from June to July, displaying yellow, tubular blossoms adorned with purple spots, surrounded by showy pink to lavender bracts that persist beyond the flowering period.
Thriving in full sun to partial shade, Spotted Bee Balm prefers dry to medium, well-drained soils and is notably tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for prairies, sandy areas, rocky woodlands, and coastal plains. The plant’s aromatic foliage contains thymol, an essential oil also found in thyme and oregano, which has been traditionally used as a seasoning substitute.
Ecologically, Spotted Bee Balm plays a significant role in supporting pollinators. It attracts a diverse array of bees, butterflies, and moths, including specialized native bees such as Dufourea monardae, Perdita gerhardi, and Protandrena abdominalis. Additionally, it serves as a larval host plant for moth species like the Gray Marvel (Anterastria teratophora) and the Snout (Pyrausta generosa). The plant’s nectar-rich flowers also draw beneficial predatory wasps that aid in controlling pest populations.