Bee Balm Monarda 'Pink Supreme' (PBR)
ABOUT
Monarda 'Pink Supreme', commonly known as Bee Balm, is a vibrant perennial that is recognized for its striking pink flowers. The plant features unique blooms that resemble shaggy pompoms or tufts atop tall stems, with a rich color that can add a pop of brightness to any garden setting. The flowers are composed of a cluster of tubular petals that spread outwards in a whorl shape, each whorl stacked upon the other, forming a layered effect. Bee Balm's blossoms are beloved by pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, who are attracted to the nectar-rich blooms. Aside from the captivating flowers, Bee Balm has aromatic foliage that emits a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or crushed. The leaves are typically a bright, lush green, and the plant's overall form is bushy and full, making it an excellent choice for filling in garden spaces with texture and color. As a variety in the Monarda family, 'Pink Supreme' carries the group's characteristic vigor and charm, providing a long-lasting display of color throughout its blooming period. Its appeal extends beyond the visual, thanks to the minty or oregano-like aroma of the leaves, which can be used in herbal teas and has historical roots in traditional remedies.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Bee Balm, Bergamot, Oswego Tea, Horsemint.
Common names
Monarda 'Pink Supreme' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Bee balm, which is the common name for Monarda 'Pink Supreme' (PBR), is generally not considered toxic to humans. It is actually commonly used in culinary applications as well as traditional herbal medicine. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur. If someone is sensitive to it and ingests part of the plant, they could potentially experience mild gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction. Always exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any plant matter if you are unfamiliar with it or have a history of plant allergies.
To pets
Bee balm is not known to be toxic to pets. While it is always best to prevent pets from eating non-food plants, as it can potentially cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction due to individual sensitivities, this plant is not typically associated with serious health risks if ingested by animals. Nevertheless, pet owners should monitor their animals and consult a veterinarian if any unusual signs or symptoms occur after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Monarda 'Pink Supreme' is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that aid in pollination.
- Aesthetic Appeal: This plant adds visual interest to gardens with its vibrant pink flowers and aromatic foliage.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
- Naturalization: Monarda 'Pink Supreme' can spread and naturalize in the garden, filling in spaces and creating a cohesive landscape over time.
- Herb Garden Addition: It is a valuable addition to herb gardens; its leaves can be used for teas and culinary purposes.
- Wildlife Habitat: Provides a habitat and food source for wildlife, particularly during blooming season.
- Durability: It's a hardy plant that can withstand various garden conditions, including cold weather and pests.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a dye for fabrics: The flowers of Beebalm can be used to produce a natural dye, imparting pinkish to lavender hues depending on the mordant used.
- In potpourri: Dried Beebalm flowers add fragrance and color to homemade potpourri mixes.
- As an insect repellent: The strong scent of Beebalm is believed to confuse pests, thus helping to protect nearby plants.
- Beebalm petals are sometimes used to decorate cakes and pastries as they are edible and add a splash of color.
- In art supplies: The petals can be used to make a natural watercolor paint for art projects.
- Hydrosol production: The flowers can be distilled to create a floral-scented hydrosol, suitable for cosmetic use or as a room freshener.
- Crafting floral crowns: The vibrant flowers of Beebalm make it a perfect choice for making decorative floral crowns or wreaths.
- As an educational tool: Beebalm can be used in schools to teach students about pollination, as it is a favorite of bees and butterflies.
- Use in homemade paper: Beebalm petals can be incorporated into homemade paper for added texture and visual interest.
- Photography: Beebalm's striking flowers can be used as subjects or backdrops in floral photography to create vibrant, appealing images.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bee Balm is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bee Balm is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Balance: The Monarda, also known as Bee Balm, often represents balance in nature due to its ability to attract pollinators and thus helping to maintain the health of the ecosystem.
- Compassion: With its soothing properties, Bee Balm is sometimes associated with sympathy and compassion, symbolizing the care we extend to others.
- Creativity: The vibrant colors and unique shape of Bee Balm can signify creativity and inspiration, making it a symbol of artistic expression and unconventional beauty.
- Healing: Historically, Bee Balm has been used for its medicinal properties, often symbolizing healing and recovery.
- Prosperity: Given its ability to attract bees and butterflies, Bee Balm can be a sign of abundance and prosperity, as it contributes to a thriving garden ecosystem.
WaterBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' prefers consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once or twice a week, ensuring you provide enough water to soak the root zone. In terms of the amount, use approximately 1 gallon of water per square foot every week. Adjust the frequency and amount based on rainfall and temperature, as the plant will need more water in hot, dry weather and less when it's cooler or rainy. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' thrives best in full sun conditions, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The plant can tolerate some light shade, especially in hotter climates where it may benefit from protection during the peak afternoon sun. Place the Bee Balm in a spot where it can enjoy morning sunlight, which helps dry dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperatureBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' performs well in a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about -30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, Bee Balm prefers temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth.
PruningPruning Bee Balm 'Pink Supreme' is important to promote healthy growth and prevent disease. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage a second bloom. Cut back the entire plant in late fall or early spring before new growth begins; this helps prevent powdery mildew and encourages vigorous, healthy foliage. Pruning every 1 to 3 years by dividing clumps can also rejuvenate the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' thrives best in soil that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, peat or compost, and perlite or sand can create an optimal growing medium.
RepottingBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. It's a good opportunity to divide the clumps if they've become too dense.
Humidity & MistingBee Balm 'Pink Supreme' prefers moderate humidity levels, common to outdoor garden environments, but it does not require specific high humidity when grown indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Bee Balm 'Pink Supreme' near a window with ample light.
Outdoor
Plant Bee Balm 'Pink Supreme' in sunny spot with good air circulation.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleMonarda 'Pink Supreme', also known as Bee Balm, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in warm soil, typically in early spring. Upon germination, the seedlings grow into vegetative plants, developing a rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As the plant matures, it develops tall stems with lance-shaped leaves and by mid to late summer, it blooms with whorls of tubular pink flowers attractive to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds which mature by late summer or fall and are then dispersed by wind or wildlife. Over winter, Monarda 'Pink Supreme' may die back, especially in colder climates, retreating to its root system which survives to produce new growth the following spring. Perennial in habit, it undergoes this cycle yearly, often spreading and forming larger clumps via rhizomes, beside seed propagation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Monarda 'Pink Supreme', also known as Bee Balm, is by division. This process is typically done in the spring or autumn when the plant's growth is less vigorous. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Bee Balm with a shovel and gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the roots intact. These sections can then be immediately replanted into well-drained soil at a similar depth to which they were originally growing. Watering the new plants thoroughly after planting will help establish them in their new locations.
