Monarda citriodora

Monarda citriodora is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae, that is native to the southern United States and northern Mexico. Common names include lemon beebalm, lemon mint (this may also apply to Eau de Cologne mint or Melissa officinalis) and purple horsemint. When crushed, the leaves emit an odor reminiscent of lemons. This odor is sometimes described as more resembling oregano, especially late in the season. Its purple flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

🌳 Lemon beebalm is a fantastic addition to gardens aimed at attracting beneficial insects and pollinators. It is also often cultivated in herbal and culinary gardens because of its lemon-flavored leaves. Moreover, it is well-suited for drought-prone areas and can flourish in poor or alkaline garden soils.

🎭 Longevity, Purification, Love

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Genus

Monarda

Family

Lamiaceae

Hardiness Zone

5-9

Mature Height

91 cm

Mature Spread

61 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Lavender

Flower Size

1.27 cm to 2.03 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Planting Time

Spring

Harvest Time

Mid summer

Native Area

Mexico

Tags (7)

Common Names (4)