Purple bee balm

Botanical Name: Monarda fistulosa
Plant Family: Mint (Lamiacea)

Description: A 2-4 ft. perennial with head-like clusters of tubular red to scarlet flowers atop square stems with large oval leaves. The leaves give off the scent of mint when bruised. All purple cultivars are derived from M. fistulosa

Growing Conditions: From full sun to part shade. Prefers rich, moist acidic soils.

Bloom Time: July through August
Bloom Color: From purple, to bright red or scarlet depending on variety.

Benefit to pollinators/wildlife: Highly attractive to native bees, bumble bees, and honey bees.  Nectar source for bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Native Status: Native to PA

Location in habitat: ??