Monarda punctata. Lamiaceae. Spotted Bee-Balm is an aromatic perennial that can grow between 1-3 ft. Extremely unique, tubular flowers are dotted with purple and surrounded by interesting purple & white bracts. Blooms last two months, from July to September.
This plant prefers full sun and well-drained sandy or loam soils. Drought tolerant. Often found in rocky woodlands, coastal plains, prairies, and meadows.
Attracts butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, and songbirds. Larval host for Anterastria teratophora, Pyrausta generosa, and Pyrausta signatalis. M. punctata also adds special value to the landscape by supporting a variety of native bees.
Deer & rabbit resistant.
Edible leaves are aromatic and can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried to use as a spice or a tea. Leaves steeped in cold water were used to make tea to treat back pains, reduce fever, and treat inflammation & chills.
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