Lemon Beebalm Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana 'Bees' Favourite'
ABOUT
'Bees' Favourite' is a particular variety of the Lemon Beebalm plant known for its attractive features to pollinators such as bees. This plant showcases whorls of flowers that are often pink, purple, or less commonly white, and these flowers are arranged in a conical shape at the tip of branching stems. Each individual blossom is tubular and spotted with tiny purple dots, surrounded by decorative, leafy bracts that can be a similar or complementary color to the flowers. The foliage of 'Bees' Favourite' is a notable characteristic as well; the leaves are lance-shaped with smooth edges and exude a pleasant, citrus-like fragrance when crushed, hence the "lemon" in its common name. This scent is not only enjoyable to humans but also aids in attracting pollinators. The plant has a bushy, clumping habit, making it appear full and lush in a garden setting. The overall visual effect of 'Bees' Favourite' is a vibrant and aromatic addition to any space frequented by bees and other nectar-seeking insects.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Lemon Beebalm, Lemon Mint, Purple Horsemint, Lemon Horsemint, Plains Horsemint, Horsemint, Lemon Bergamot
Common names
Monarda citriodora var. austromontana, Monarda austromontana.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common name for Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana 'Bees' Favourite' is Lemon Beebalm. Generally, Lemon Beebalm is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is often used for culinary purposes, including as a flavoring in teas and other beverages, and is believed to have some medicinal properties. However, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people might experience adverse reactions if they have specific allergies to plants within the Lamiaceae family. If ingested in large quantities or if someone has a particular sensitivity, symptoms could potentially include stomach upset, nausea, or allergic reactions. It's always important to be cautious when trying new plants for the first time, and those with known plant allergies should consult with a healthcare provider.
To pets
Lemon Beebalm, the most common name for Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana 'Bees' Favourite', is also not known to be toxic to pets. Many pets can come into contact with this plant without any adverse reactions. However, as with humans, individual animals can have different sensitivities, and some might experience mild stomach upset if they consume large amounts of the plant. If you suspect your pet is reacting poorly to ingesting Lemon Beebalm, keep an eye out for symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, and consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet's health after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are a favorite among bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing pollination in the garden.
- Aromatic Foliage: The leaves emit a pleasant citrus-like fragrance when crushed or brushed against, adding sensory appeal to the garden space.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is capable of withstanding periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and arid environments.
- Landscape Ornamentation: Its vibrant lavender-pink flowers and attractive foliage make it an excellent choice for ornamental use in landscaping.
- Easy to Grow: It is known for being easy to cultivate, requiring minimal maintenance, which is perfect for novice gardeners.
- Culinary Use: Though not a medical property, some parts of the plant can be used in culinary applications to add flavor.
- Erosion Control: The plant can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and in areas prone to erosion.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: The essential oils of Beebalm can exhibit antiseptic properties, potentially useful for minor cuts and wounds.
- Carminative: Beebalm has been used traditionally to help relieve digestive issues such as bloating and gas.
- Antifungal: The plant may possess antifungal qualities, which could be beneficial in treating certain fungal infections.
- Antibacterial: Components within Beebalm's essential oil might be effective against certain bacteria, though not substantiated by clinical studies.
- Diaphoretic: Beebalm has been utilized traditionally to induce sweating and potentially reduce fevers.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Monarda can be used to create natural fabric dyes, offering shades of pink, purple, and brown depending on the mordant used.
- The leaves and flowers of Monarda, when dried, can be incorporated into potpourri blends for a citrusy fragrance.
- As a natural insect repellent, crushed Monarda leaves can be rubbed on the skin to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs.
- Bee Balm plants are an excellent addition to a butterfly or hummingbird garden, as their flowers attract pollinators.
- The essential oil of Monarda can be used in aromatherapy diffusers to give a room a fresh, lemony scent.
- The plant can be utilized for companion planting to attract beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
- Monarda's vibrant flowers can be used as a natural food coloring for cakes, pastries, and drinks when simmered in water.
- Dried Monarda petals can be used to make a natural confetti for eco-friendly celebrations.
- The leaves of Monarda can be used to flavor homemade jellies, giving them a unique citrusy/herbal taste.
- By planting Monarda around the edges of a vegetable garden, it can serve as a living mulch, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lemon Beebalm is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lemon Beebalm is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Attraction - As a variety known as 'Bees' Favourite', this plant symbolizes attraction and allure, representing how some qualities can draw others in, just like flowers draw in bees.
- Healing - Monarda, also known as Bee Balm, has medicinal properties and is often associated with healing, suggesting the ability to mend and soothe ailments.
- Balance - The pleasant citrus scent of the Monarda citriodora implies balance and harmony, as citrus aromas are often used to refresh and restore equilibrium.
- Friendship - Given its appeal to bees, a symbol of communal living and cooperation, Bee Balm can represent friendship and the importance of social bonds.
WaterBee Balm, commonly known as Lemon Bee Balm, prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ideally, provide water to the plant thoroughly, to ensure moisture reaches the root zone, about once a week. During the growing season in spring and summer, the plant may require additional watering, particularly if conditions are very hot or dry. Be cautious not to overwater, as Lemon Bee Balm is sensitive to excessive moisture, which can lead to root rot. Depending on the temperature and humidity, a rough estimate would be to provide 1 to 1.5 gallons of water every 7 to 10 days, adjusting as needed based on weather conditions.
LightFor optimal growth, Lemon Bee Balm thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant benefits from receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be in a garden area that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to protect the plant from intense afternoon heat. However, too much shade may result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureLemon Bee Balm can survive a wide range of temperatures but grows best in a range between 60°F and 70°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20°F, making it suitable for cooler climates, though it prefers warmer temperatures during the growing season. The maximum temperature for the plant is around 80°F to 85°F, beyond which it may experience stress.
PruningPruning Lemon Bee Balm is essential for maintaining plant health and encouraging bushy growth and prolific blooming. Prune it back in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cutting the plant back by about one-third helps to prevent overcrowding and promote air circulation, which is necessary to prevent powdery mildew. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season will encourage additional blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLemon Beebalm ('Bees' Favourite') thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite encourages healthy growth. Regular mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
RepottingLemon Beebalm ('Bees' Favourite') is typically grown as an annual, so repotting is not usually necessary. If growing as a perennial, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide space for root growth.
Humidity & MistingLemon Beebalm ('Bees' Favourite') prefers moderate humidity but is adaptable to various conditions. Best grown outdoors where natural humidity levels are sufficient for this hardy plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide sun, well-drained soil, moderate water.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, rich soil, regular water.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleLemon Beebalm 'Bees' Favourite' (Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana) begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in well-draining soil with good sunlight in late winter to early spring. Upon germination, the seedling emerges, developing into a young plant with characteristic square stems and lance-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, growing taller and producing more leaves. During the flowering stage, typically in late spring to summer, Lemon Beebalm 'Bees' Favourite' showcases whorls of lavender to pink tubular flowers beloved by bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers produce small nutlets containing seeds, signaling the reproductive phase. Finally, as the growing season ends, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, completing its annual growth cycle, though it can reseed itself to start the life cycle anew in the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The plant commonly known as Lemon Beebalm can be best propagated by seed. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed, ensuring a warm soil temperature conducive to germination. To propagate, simply scatter the seeds on prepared soil, and press them lightly into the ground, as they require light to germinate effectively. Maintain a moist environment until germination, which typically occurs within 10 to 40 days. Thinning seedlings to a few inches apart once they've established can encourage more robust growth and prevent overcrowding. This method is favored for its simplicity and the ease with which it allows for the cultivation of Lemon Beebalm on a larger scale.
