Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm) is a short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual or biennial, boasting showy clusters of scented, two-lipped, tubular, lavender to pink flowers resting upon white or lavender bracts. Blooming for weeks from late spring to mid-summer, they are borne in tiered, globular clusters around the stem and attract scores of butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinators to the garden. If watered, Lemon Bee Balm will continue flowering through the end of summer and even into fall. Each flowering stem usually carries between 2-6 flower clusters. Stiff and square, the stems are lined with pairs of narrow, toothed, lance-shaped leaves that release a citrus or lemony scent when rubbed or crushed. The leaves may be used raw or cooked for flavoring in salads and for tea. Long-blooming, easy to grow, low care, Lemon Bee Balm is best suited to perennial borders, naturalized areas, prairies, and meadows.
