Species

Monarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

32 other cultivars

perennial RHS AwardN. America Native

Marshall's Bee Balm

Monarda didyma 'Marshall'

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming perennial native to eastern North America, featuring aromatic, toothed, dark green leaves on square stems. It produces showy, tubular, two-lipped flowers in dense, terminal heads, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Spreads by rhizomes.

'Marshall's Delight' is a popular cultivar noted for its excellent resistance to powdery mildew, a common issue for the species. It features clear, bright pink flowers and typically grows in a more compact clump.

Uses & Benefits:

Monarda didyma Marshall offers vibrant purple blooms that attract pollinators, making it a stunning addition to flower beds and borders.

Its fragrant leaves can be used in teas and herbal remedies, providing a natural health benefit.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting local biodiversity.

SpeciesMonarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or divisions into soil early spring or late fall.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Water deeply after planting and during dry spells for 6 weeks.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot climates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for best flowering 🌞
Water regularly, especially during dry periods 💧
Prune after blooming to promote healthy growth ✂️
Use organic mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
Avoid heavy pruning in late fall
Do not fertilize with high nitrogen in late season
Refrain from pruning during flowering to maximize blooms

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Pinch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid purple-flowered borderFragrant herb garden edgeWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

EchinaceaBlack-eyed Susan SalviaYarrow Lavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Marshall's Bee Balm questions

What zones can Marshall's Bee Balm grow in?

Marshall's Bee Balm is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Marshall's Bee Balm deer resistant?

Yes — Marshall's Bee Balm is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Marshall's Bee Balm bloom?

Marshall's Bee Balm typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Marshall's Bee Balm need full sun?

Marshall's Bee Balm does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.