Bee balm Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet'
ABOUT
The Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet', commonly known as Bee Balm, is a vibrant and attractive perennial herb known for its vivid red flowers. These flowers are distinctive with their tubular shape that fans out into an elaborate, shaggy coronet of petal-like bracts. The bloom is borne atop long, sturdy stems which give the plant a visual airiness and grant it a striking appearance in the garden. The leaves of the Bee Balm are equally appealing, presenting a bright green color and a somewhat oval shape with serrated edges. They are pleasantly fragrant when brushed or crushed, releasing a scent reminiscent of mint, to which it is related. Bee Balm blooms in the warm months, typically mid to late summer, and its rich color can attract a host of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, adding to the dynamic scene around the plant. When not in flower, the foliage itself provides a lovely backdrop for other garden plants with its robust texture and verdant hues.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Bee Balm, Bergamot, Horsemint, Oswego Tea
Common names
Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Bee Balm is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented symptoms of poisoning from ingesting Bee Balm, as it is actually used in culinary applications and as a herbal remedy for various conditions. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it should be consumed with caution if you are not familiar with its effects on your body.
To pets
Bee Balm is also not considered toxic to pets. It is not known to cause any significant symptoms of poisoning if ingested by animals such as cats or dogs. Nevertheless, pets may have different sensitivities or reactions to plants, so it's always prudent to monitor your pet if they consume any plant material and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse effects are noticed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Scarlet
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet', also known as Bee Balm, is known for its ability to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden, aiding in the pollination of plants.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its scarlet red flowers, Bee Balm adds vibrant color and visual interest to any garden or landscape.
- Fragrant Foliage: The leaves of Bee Balm release a pleasant fragrance when crushed or brushed against, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Bee Balm exhibits some drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens with lower water availability.
- Ease of Care: Bee Balm is known for being relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal care once it is established in a suitable environment.
- Edible Uses: The leaves and flowers of Bee Balm are edible, and can be used to make tea or as garnishes in culinary dishes, though this is not a medical benefit and should be understood as a culinary feature.
- Long Blooming Period: Bee Balm has a lengthy blooming period, which can last several weeks, providing a long-lasting display in the garden.
Medical Properties- Antiseptic: Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet' has been used for its natural antiseptic properties, often in the form of an oil or tincture.
- Antifungal: The plant has compounds that can help in the treatment of fungal infections.
- Carminative: It has been considered to relieve flatulence and bloating.
- Diaphoretic: The leaves and flowers of the Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet' are sometimes used for their sweat-inducing properties, which can be useful in fever management.
- Digestive: Herbalists have used this plant to help with digestive issues.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bee Balm can be incorporated into potpourris for a delightful scent. The leaves and flowers are dried and mixed with other aromatic plants to create a fragrant blend.
- Due to its strong fragrance, Bee Balm can be used as a natural insect repellent in the garden, warding off unwanted pests.
- The colorful flowers of Bee Balm make striking natural dyes for fabrics and wool, yielding various shades of pink, purple, and red depending on the mordant used.
- Fresh or dried Bee Balm flowers can be used to craft decorative wreaths and floral arrangements, adding a vibrant touch to home decor.
- Bee Balm foliage can be placed in drawers or closets as a natural sachet to impart a pleasant aroma to linens and clothing.
- The plant can serve as a natural mulch for garden beds. Its leaves decompose and enrich the soil with essential nutrients.
- Dried Bee Balm petals can be used in papermaking, embedding the petals into the paper for an artistic effect.
- Bee Balm can be included as a component in perfumery, especially in homemade perfumes, for its unique and strong scent.
- When added to bath water or homemade bath bombs, Bee Balm can offer a soothing aromatic experience during a relaxing soak.
- Its vibrant flowers can be used as edible decorations for cakes and pastries, adding a touch of elegance and subtle flavor.
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: The vibrant red flowers of the Bee Balm are known to attract bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, symbolizing allure and magnetism.
- Healing: Bee Balm has historical medicinal uses by Native Americans, representing healing and the soothing of ailments.
- Protection: In some traditions, Bee Balm is considered to have protective qualities, used to ward off negativity and illness.
- Love: The red color and the enticing aroma of the Bee Balm is often associated with love and the stimulation of romantic feelings.
- Purity: Despite its bold color, Bee Balm can also be a symbol of cleanliness and purity, especially in its traditional use in herbal remedies.
- Balance: Bee Balm's role in supporting ecosystem health, by attracting pollinators, can symbolize harmony and balance in nature.
WaterThe bee balm should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which is approximately 0.6 gallons for an area of about 10 square feet. During hot and dry periods, increase the watering frequency to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. It's important not to overwater, as bee balm does not like to sit in waterlogged soil.
LightBee balm thrives in full sun, which means it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A location that is sunny for most of the day is ideal for this plant. However, in regions with very hot summers, bee balm benefits from some afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat.
TemperatureBee balm is hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, typically surviving in zones 4-9. The plant can tolerate temperatures down to -30°F and can handle heat up to about 90°F, though it prefers temperatures between 60°F and 70°F.
PruningBee balm should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and to promote more blooms. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, should be done regularly during the blooming season. After the first frost in the fall, prune the plant back to a few inches above the ground to prepare it for winter and to help control any fungal diseases.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Bee Balm 'Gardenview Scarlet' is rich, well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Adding compost or well-rotted manure enhances the nutrient content, and a layer of mulch helps with moisture retention. Avoid heavy, poorly-drained soils to prevent root rot.
RepottingBee Balm 'Gardenview Scarlet' typically does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as a perennial in gardens. In containers, repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and address any overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingBee Balm 'Gardenview Scarlet' thrives best in average to high humidity levels found in outdoor environments, making it suitable for most garden settings; there is no need for specific humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade, with moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet', commonly known as bee balm, begins with seed germination, often occurring in early spring under appropriate temperature and soil moisture conditions. The seedlings then go through a vegetative stage where they develop a rosette of leaves and a strong root system. As the plant matures, stems elongate, and the bee balm enters the flowering stage in late spring to summer, attracting pollinators with its vivid scarlet blooms. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, and the plant may enter a period of dormancy in the fall, especially in colder climates. During the dormant stage, above-ground parts may die back while the root system remains alive underground. With the return of favorable conditions in the following spring, the bee balm regrows from the existing roots or new seeds, continuing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Monarda 'Gardenview Scarlet', commonly known as Bee Balm, is best propagated in the spring or fall. The most popular method of propagation for Bee Balm is division, which is both straightforward and effective. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Bee Balm and gently separate the plant into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system. Ensure that each section has at least a couple of shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were growing at originally, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches apart (approximately 45 to 60 centimeters). Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. Division helps to rejuvenate older clumps and also provides a simple way to create more plants for your garden or to share with others.
