Monarda punctata is one of the more unusual Monardas. Even though the picture at the top shows up with whitish bracts, they are actually a pale pink. These colorful bracts remain on the plant long after the actual flowers shrivel and drop off. In the photo on the left, we see how the multi-tiered flower heads resemble the tiers of a Chinese pagoda and, in the middle photo, we can see where the name Spotted Bee Balm comes from. On the right, a Tarantula Wasp enjoys the flower of our Spotted Bee Balm. Many insects visit this plant including several different kinds of bees and butterflies.

This is not the most dependable perennial, but it grows quickly and is worth growing if only as an annual. While it prefers full sun, it is fairly adaptable and can take up to half day shade, though it may grow a bit lanky with increased shade.

Cultural Information

Height: 2 Feet 

Hardiness: Perennial
in Zones 6-11

Flower Color: Lilac
with dark purple spots

Characteristics: Full/ Part Sun, Herbaceous

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