Species

Monarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

32 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Scorpion Beebalm

Monarda didyma 'Scorpion'

The Story

Plant Bio

A clump-forming perennial with square stems and aromatic, lance-shaped leaves. Produces showy, tubular flowers in dense, terminal heads, characteristic of the mint family.

Distinguished by its striking, deep violet-purple flowers and a noted improvement in mildew resistance over older cultivars.

Uses & Benefits:

Monarda didyma Scorpion offers vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators, making it a striking addition to perennial borders and pollinator gardens.

Its aromatic leaves can be used to make herbal teas and natural remedies.

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

SpeciesMonarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

42 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

High

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 location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep into moist soil, spacing 18 inches apart.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Transplant seedlings after danger of frost has passed, typically 6 weeks after germination.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for the most vibrant blooms and vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth
Apply organic compost in spring for healthy development
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall to protect winter interest
Refrain from using chemical pesticides unless necessary
Don’t plant in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid perennial border with aromatic foliageHerb garden with fragrant accentsWildflower meadow for ecological benefit

Companion Plants

EchinaceaLavender Coreopsis SalviaRussian Sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Scorpion Beebalm questions

What zones can Scorpion Beebalm grow in?

Scorpion Beebalm 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 Scorpion Beebalm deer resistant?

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

When does Scorpion Beebalm bloom?

Scorpion Beebalm 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 Scorpion Beebalm need full sun?

Scorpion Beebalm does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.