Bee balm (bergamot, horsemint)
Monarda
A genus of aromatic, nectar-rich perennial herbs in the mint family (Lamiaceae), known as bee balm; produces showy tubular flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Leaves and flowers are edible and used for tea; generally non-toxic to dogs and cats. Large quantities may upset digestion due to aromatic oils in some animals.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Provide bright light with at least 4–6 hours of direct sun for best blooms. In hot climates give afternoon shade to prevent scorch. Indoors place near a south- or west-facing window where light is strong but not baking all day.
Water
Keep soil evenly moist but well drained. Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 in) of soil is dry; potted plants typically need water every 3–7 days. Avoid waterlogged roots to prevent rot; allow some drying between waterings.
Humidity
Prefers average indoor humidity (40–60%). Avoid stagnant high humidity which encourages powdery mildew. Improve air circulation and lightly mist only if indoor air is very dry.
Temperature
Hardy from about -30°C to 35°C (-22°F to 95°F). Best growth occurs between 15–25°C (59–77°F) with cooler nights improving flowering.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
White powdery coating on leaves
Cause: Powdery mildew favored by poor air circulation, high humidity, and dense planting
Solution: Improve spacing and airflow, remove affected leaves, water at soil level, use resistant cultivars or a fungicide if severe
Yellowing, wilting and mushy crown
Cause: Overwatering or poorly drained soil causing crown or root rot
Solution: Improve drainage, reduce watering, repot into a well-draining mix, cut away rotten roots and replant healthy sections
Spindly, weak growth and few flowers
Cause: Insufficient light or overcrowding
Solution: Move to brighter location with several hours of sun, thin or divide plants every 2–3 years to rejuvenate
Sticky leaves, distorted growth or leaf holes
Cause: Aphids, leafhoppers, or other sucking pests; also Japanese beetles and slugs can chew foliage
Solution: Spray with strong water stream, insecticidal soap for aphids, handpick beetles, use slug traps; encourage predators
✂️How to Propagate Bee balm (bergamot, horsemint)
Division: In spring or early fall, dig up clump and split into sections with roots and shoots; replant immediately, spacing 30–45 cm apart. Stem cuttings: take 8–10 cm non-flowering tips in late spring, remove lower leaves, root in damp mix or water until roots form, then pot on. Seed: sow indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost or sow outdoors after danger of frost; thin seedlings to allow air flow.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Lamiaceae
Native to: Native to eastern and central North America, with species across much of the continent.
Natural Habitat: Grows naturally in sunny meadows, prairies, open woodland edges and along stream margins in moist, well-drained soils; tolerates disturbed ground and periodic moisture.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
After first hard frost, cut foliage back to ground level or leave a short stem for seedheads; apply 5–7 cm mulch to protect crowns in very cold areas.
Spring
Remove winter mulch, divide overcrowded clumps, transplant, and apply a balanced fertilizer; ensure good spacing and full sun for best bloom.
Summer
Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom, water during dry spells to keep soil evenly moist, monitor for powdery mildew and pests, increase airflow.
Fall
Allow some seedheads for wildlife if desired, cut back most foliage after frost, clear diseased debris and apply light mulch for winter protection.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Is bee balm deer resistant?
Moderately deer resistant but not deer-proof; heavy browsing can occur in deer-heavy areas.
How often should I divide bee balm?
Divide every 2–3 years in spring or fall to reduce crowding and improve air circulation.
Can bee balm be grown in containers?
Yes; use a large pot with good drainage, rich potting mix, and water more frequently than in-ground plants.
What fertilizer is best for bee balm?
Use a balanced slow-release or a light application of 10-10-10 in spring; avoid high nitrogen that promotes floppy growth.
Does bee balm attract pollinators?
Yes; flowers attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds and are excellent for pollinator gardens.
Turn These Tips into Daily Plant Chats
Get watering reminders, humidity alerts, and adorable updates straight from your Bee balm (bergamot, horsemint). TextMyPlant keeps you on schedule so your plants always look their best.
Start chatting with your plants🌿Related Plant Guides
Tulip
BeginnerTulipa
Spring-flowering bulbous perennials with showy cup-shaped flowers in many colors; grown from bulbs, prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and require a cold dormant period to bloom.
Common yarrow
BeginnerAchillea millefolium
Hardy, low-maintenance perennial herb with feathery leaves and flat clusters of tiny flowers; tolerates poor soils, drought, and full sun.
Baby's-breath
BeginnerGypsophila
Genus of herbaceous flowering plants (baby's-breath) grown for airy clusters of tiny white or pink flowers; prefers full sun and well‑drained, neutral to alkaline soil.
Common hyacinth (Dutch hyacinth)
BeginnerHyacinthus orientalis
Fragrant spring-blooming bulbous perennial with dense spikes of bell-shaped flowers in various colors; commonly grown in gardens and containers; hardy in temperate climates.
Last updated: 11/7/2025