Bee Balm Perennial: The Perfect Addition to Your Garden

Are you looking for a plant that will not only brighten up your garden but also attract bees and hummingbirds? Look no further than bee balm perennial! This versatile plant is easy to grow and comes in a variety of colors, making it a perfect addition to any garden.

What is Bee Balm Perennial?

Bee balm is a flowering plant that is native to North America. It is also commonly known as wild bergamot, horsemint, and Oswego tea. It belongs to the mint family and has square stems and fragrant leaves. The flowers are tubular and come in shades of pink, purple, red, and white.

Types of Bee Balm Perennial

There are several different types of bee balm perennial, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

1. Monarda didyma (Scarlet Bee Balm)

This is one of the most common types of bee balm perennial. It has bright red flowers and can grow up to 4 feet tall. Scarlet bee balm prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

2. Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot)

Wild bergamot has lavender-pink flowers and grows up to 3 feet tall. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil.

3. Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm)

As the name suggests, lemon bee balm has a citrusy scent to its leaves. It has pink flowers and grows up to 2 feet tall. This variety prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Benefits of Bee Balm Perennial

Bee balm perennial is not only beautiful but also beneficial to the environment. Here are some of the benefits of growing bee balm in your garden:

1. Attracts Pollinators

Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are all attracted to bee balm's fragrant flowers. By planting bee balm in your garden, you can help support the local ecosystem by providing food for these important pollinators.

2. Medicinal Properties

Bee balm has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. It contains thymol, which has antiseptic properties and can help soothe sore throats and digestive issues.

3. Culinary Uses

Bee balm leaves can be used to make tea or added to salads for a pop of flavor. The flowers can also be used as a garnish or added to desserts for a touch of sweetness.

How to Grow Bee Balm Perennial

Now that you know about the different types and benefits of bee balm perennial, let's talk about how to grow it in your own garden.

Planting

Bee balm should be planted in the spring or fall, in an area with full sun to partial shade. The soil should be moist and well-drained. It is best to plant bee balm in groups, rather than as individual plants, to encourage pollination.

Care

Bee balm is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your bee balm:

1. Watering

Bee balm should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

2. Fertilizing

Bee balm does not require much fertilization but can benefit from a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring.

3. Pruning

To encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy, bee balm should be pruned back by about one-third in the early summer.

Uses for Bee Balm Perennial

Bee balm perennial is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for incorporating bee balm into your garden and home:

1. Garden Borders

Bee balm's showy flowers and attractive foliage make it a great choice for garden borders or mixed flower beds.

2. Containers

Bee balm can be grown in containers on a patio or balcony, adding color and fragrance to small spaces.

3. Cut Flowers

Bee balm's long-lasting flowers make it a popular choice for cut flower arrangements.

4. Herbal Tea

The leaves of bee balm can be dried and used to make a fragrant, citrusy herbal tea.

FAQs

Q: Is bee balm perennial easy to grow?

A: Yes, bee balm is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in most gardens.

Q: What colors do bee balm flowers come in?

A: Bee balm flowers come in shades of pink, purple, red, and white.

Q: How tall does bee balm grow?

A: Depending on the variety, bee balm can grow anywhere from 1 to 4 feet tall.

Q: Can you eat bee balm?

A: Yes, the leaves of bee balm can be used to make tea or added to salads for a pop of flavor.

Q: Does bee balm attract bees?

A: Yes, bee balm's fragrant flowers are a favorite of bees and other pollinators.


Bee balm perennial is a beautiful and beneficial plant that deserves a place in every garden. Whether you're looking to attract pollinators, add color to your garden, or enjoy its medicinal or culinary properties, bee balm is sure to please. With its easy care requirements and versatility, bee balm is the perfect addition to any garden.