Pet Safe
moderate Care
bee balm
Monarda didyma cvs.
Bee balm (Monarda didyma cvs.) is an attractive and fragrant herbaceous perennial. Growing up to 4 feet tall, it is a showy garden plant with bright red, pink, or white flowers on a spiky stem. The flowers attract pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, giving the plant its common name. The leaves have a menthol-like aroma that is thought to help deter pests. Bee balm can be started from seed or by division, and it prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. With its easy care requirements and attractive blooms, it is an excellent addition to any garden.
Sunlight
Partial Shade
Water Needs
medium
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zone 3
Hardiness Map
Green areas show climates worldwide where this plant can grow.
Zone 3
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Water Every
7-10 days
Sun Needs
partial-shade
Growth
High
Care Level
Low
Season
Fall
Sep Oct Nov
Winter
Dec Jan Feb
Spring
Mar Apr May
Summer
Jun Jul Aug
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
Starts Flowering
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Pruning Time
Flowering
How to Propagate
Seed Propagation
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date
Is This Plant Right for You?
Good For:
- •Homes with pets
- •Low-maintenance gardens
Consider Carefully:
- •Indoor growing
- •Infrequent watering
Bloom Seasons
summer
Care Tips
Light Requirements
Enjoys dappled or limited direct sun—about 2–4 hours of morning or late afternoon light and protection during peak midday sun.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch of soil is dry.
Best Planting Time
Plant in early spring or fall for best results. Blooms in summer.