Common Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)

Common Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)

Common Bee Balm is one of the most iconic wildflowers in the Midwest. Dazzling, aromatic, and totally unmistakable. Its soft lavender-pink blooms are made up of intricate, tubular petals that form firework-like clusters, standing tall above the minty, fragrant foliage. The whole plant hums with life when in bloom, attracting pollinators by the dozen. It’s one of those natives that feels both wild and ornamental, making any garden feel vibrant and alive.

The leaves are richly scented: spicy, citrusy, and herbal all at once, and have a long history of medicinal and ceremonial use. The name Monarda fistulosa refers to the tube-like shape of its flowers (fistulosa means “hollow” or “pipe-shaped”), which are perfectly designed for long-tongued pollinators like bumblebees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.

Bee Balm thrives in full sun and average to slightly dry soils. It’s tolerant of clay and drought once established, and spreads graduall to form natural-looking clumps. 

Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part sun
Soil: Average to dry, well-drained; tolerant of clay
Moisture: Medium to dry
Height: 4 feet
Spread: 1–3 feet
Zones: 3–9
Bloom time: July through August

Wildlife Value
Common Bee Balm is a magnet for pollinators—especially bumblebees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Its seeds also provide food for birds in fall and winter. A host plant for several moths and butterflies, including the Hermit Sphinx and Raspberry Pyrausta.

Blooms Alongside:
Yellow Coneflower (Ratibida pinnata), Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea), Hoary Vervain (Verbena stricta), Wild Quinine (Parthenium integrifolium), Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya)