Species

Monarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

32 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Bee Pretty Bee Balm

Monarda didyma 'Bee Pretty'

The Story

Plant Bio

Monarda didyma, commonly known as bee balm, is a perennial herb with a bushy habit, featuring aromatic, serrated leaves and vibrant, tubular flowers arranged in clusters, typically in shades of red, pink, or purple.

The 'Bee Pretty' cultivar is distinguished by its exceptionally bright and attractive flower coloration, attracting pollinators and adding vivid color to garden borders and pollinator gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant red flowers and aromatic foliage, attracting pollinators and enhancing garden aesthetics.

Easy to grow and maintain, drought tolerant once established, suitable for low-water gardens.

Supports bees and beneficial insects, promotes biodiversity in pollinator habitats.

SpeciesMonarda didymaBee Balm Oswego Tea

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

22 inches

Width

20 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist until germination, about 2 weeks.
Transplant seedlings after they develop true leaves.
Space plants 18-24 inches apart for good air circulation.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with good air circulation for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 💧
Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness ✂️
Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter 🌱
Avoid heavy fertilizing late in the season ❌
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
Pest Check
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pollinator-friendly flower bedFragrant border plantWildflower garden accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea Salvia CoreopsisBlack-eyed Susan Lavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bee Pretty Bee Balm questions

What zones can Bee Pretty Bee Balm grow in?

Bee Pretty 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 Bee Pretty Bee Balm deer resistant?

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

When does Bee Pretty Bee Balm bloom?

Bee Pretty 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 Bee Pretty Bee Balm need full sun?

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