Noted for its pagoda-like flowers, Monarda punctata (Spotted Bee Balm) is a clump-forming, short-lived perennial or biennial, boasting showy clusters of creamy purple-spotted tubular flowers, 2-3 in. across (5-7 cm), resting upon pink, lavender or creamy bracts. Blooming for weeks from early to mid-summer, they attract scores of butterflies and pollinators to the garden. The foliage of deep green aromatic leaves may be used to flavor teas. Spotted Bee Balm is best suited to perennial borders, wild gardens, prairies, and meadows.

• Grows in clumps up to 18-24 in. tall (45-60 cm) and 9-12 in. wide (22-30 cm). Spreads by runners to form large clumps without becoming aggressive.
• Performs best in full sun or partial shade in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil. Best in sandy soils with consistent moisture. Tolerates poor soils. Drought tolerant.
• This showy perennial is a striking addition to prairies and meadows.
• Monarda flowers attract streams of butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators, but this plant is deer and rabbit-resistant.
• Providing good air circulation to combat powdery mildew is important.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
• Native to the eastern U.S. and California.