Bee Balm Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham'
ABOUT
Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham', commonly known as Bee Balm, is a perennial herb that boasts an attractive appearance. This plant typically has a bushy form with a generous spread of bright green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped, with edges that display a slightly serrated pattern, adding texture and interest to the overall look of the plant. It is the flowers, though, that are the true showstoppers of Bee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham'. They emerge atop sturdy square stems and are gathered in dense, rounded clusters. These blossoms have an ornate appearance, with tubular shapes that flare out into a whorl of pink petals tinged with a more lilac hue, giving a two-tone effect that is quite eye-catching. The petals have a delicate, papery quality and are slightly ruffled. A common trait of the blossoms is a spiky tuft of smaller, petal-like bracts that crown the top of each flower cluster, making it look like an extravagant headdress. The contrasting color palette and intricate structure of 'Beauty of Cobham' flowers make them particularly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which adds a dynamic element to its appearance when these creatures visit the blooms in search of nectar. In full flower, the Bee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' exudes a casual yet striking charm that can catch the eye from a distance, making it a favored choice for ornamental gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Bee Balm, Bergamot, Oswego Tea, Horsemint
Common names
Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham'
ToxicityTo humans
Bergamot is not known to be toxic to humans. It is actually commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine for its aromatic leaves and flowers. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or adverse reactions are possible. Always exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider if you experience negative symptoms after handling or ingesting the plant.
To pets
Bergamot is not typically toxic to pets either. In general, it is considered safe when pets come into contact with it. Nonetheless, pets can sometimes have sensitivities or allergic reactions to plants that are generally regarded as safe, and it is always wise to monitor your pet for any signs of distress after ingestion and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse effects are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' is known for drawing in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which helps pollinate your garden.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking pink flowers and lush green foliage, this plant adds beauty and color to any garden space.
- Fragrance: The plant emits a pleasant aroma that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Culinary Use: The leaves of the Bee Balm can be used in teas and as a flavorful herb in cooking.
- Easy to Grow: Bee Balm is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it suitable for beginner gardeners.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it's tolerant to periods of drought which makes it low-maintenance and sustainable for dry climates.
- Pest Resistance: The plant has natural resistance to many pests, thus reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Naturalizing: Bee Balm can spread and naturalize in suitable conditions, filling out garden spaces and reducing weed growth.
- Soil Adaptability: It can adapt to a range of soil conditions, although it prefers moist, well-drained soil.
- Seasonal Interest: Monarda has a season-long foliage and lengthy blooming period that provides extended interest in the garden.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Bergamot (Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' is a hybrid of the Monarda genus, commonly referred to as Bergamot) contains thymol, which is known for its antiseptic properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: Bergamot has been used traditionally to reduce inflammation, particularly in conditions such as sore throat.
- Carminative: It may help in relieving digestive issues such as bloating and gas due to its potential carminative effects.
- Antispasmodic: Bergamot is sometimes used for its antispasmodic properties, which may alleviate cramps and spasms.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bee Balm can be used as a natural dye. The leaves and flowers, when boiled, can produce a range of colors from yellow to soft pink depending on the mordant used.
- It's often included in companion planting strategies in vegetable gardens as it can attract pollinators and may help to increase the yield of vegetables and fruits.
- Bee Balm petals are edible and can be used to add color and a hint of minty flavor to salads or as a garnish on desserts and drinks.
- The plant can be used as a natural strewing herb. Its leaves and flowers when scattered on floors, can help to deodorize and clean the air with their fragrance.
- Bee Balm can be used in potpourri mixtures, as it retains its shape and color when dried, and can add a pleasant fragrance to the mixture.
- It can be used as a flavoring agent in jellies and jams, imparting a subtle minty flavor with a hint of oregano.
- The essential oil extracted from Bee Balm has been used in aromatherapy for its soothing and relaxing properties.
- Dried Bee Balm flowers can be incorporated into homemade soap recipes for their fragrance and antibacterial properties.
- The plant’s leaves can also be used in a foot soak to help relieve tired, achy feet thanks to their antiseptic properties.
- Bee Balm plants can be used in crafting, such as in floral arrangements or wreaths, both fresh and dried, for their color and form.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiBee Balm is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityBee Balm is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction: Monarda, commonly known as Bee Balm, is well-known for its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, symbolizing allure and magnetism.
- Healing: Historically, Bee Balm has been used for its medicinal properties, especially by Native Americans, representing healing and therapeutic qualities.
- Balancing: Bee Balm has a strong fragrance and is believed to help balance emotions and soothe anxiety, symbolizing harmony and emotional well-being.
- Support: With its tendency to support and nourish pollinators, Bee Balm represents encouragement and support for the community and environment.
WaterBergamot, commonly known as Bee Balm, should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moist without becoming waterlogged. During the growing season, watering approximately once a week should be sufficient, with each plant requiring about one gallon of water. However, in periods of drought or extreme heat, the frequency should be increased to ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely. It's essential to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves dry. Adjustments should be made to watering schedules based on rainfall, with less water needed during wet periods.
LightBee Balm thrives in an area where it receives full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, although it can tolerate afternoon shade in hotter climates. The best spot would be one where the plant is exposed to the morning sun, which is less intense and helps to dry the dew on the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperatureBee Balm grows best in temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit but is hardy in zones 4 through 9, withstanding minimum temperatures down to -30 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive up to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit but will require additional water and some shade from the intense midday heat. Ideal growing conditions are where night temperatures are significantly cooler than daytime temperatures to promote vigorous growth.
PruningBee Balm should be pruned to encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation, and reduce the chance of powdery mildew. Pruning should be done in the early spring by removing dead or weak stems and again after the first flowering to promote a second bloom. Pruning down to just a couple of inches from the ground level is recommended in late fall or early spring as a part of winter preparation.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loam, compost, and peat moss can make an ideal soil base, ensuring adequate drainage and fertility for the plant's robust growth.
RepottingBee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is a perennial garden plant. It's best to divide and replant sections when the center of the clump starts to die out or every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingBee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' thrives in average outdoor humidity levels. It does not require any special humidity adjustments when grown in its natural outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Bee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' indoors in bright light and well-ventilated areas.
Outdoor
Plant Bee Balm 'Beauty of Cobham' in full sun to partial shade in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleMonarda 'Beauty of Cobham', commonly known as Bee Balm, begins its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in spring or autumn, germinates in warm and moist soil conditions. Once the seedlings have developed true leaves and are strong enough to withstand transplanting, they are moved to their growing location. The plant then enters a vegetative state, growing stems and leaves, and establishing a strong root system. Towards late spring into summer, Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham' progresses to the flowering stage, producing pinkish-purple blossoms that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Post-pollination, seed heads may form, and if left on the plant, can self-seed or be collected for deliberate propagation. As a perennial, the plant will die back in autumn or winter, entering a period of dormancy before resuming growth in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Monarda 'Beauty of Cobham', commonly known as Bee Balm, is best propagated through division in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump and gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each has a sufficient root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. Water the new divisions well to help establish them. This method proves effective because it maintains the clonal integrity of the 'Beauty of Cobham' cultivar, ensuring that the new plants will display the same characteristics as the parent.
