Bee Balm
Photo: "Bee Balm plant" by Watts · CC BY 2.0
Flower · Companion-perennial

Bee Balm

Lamiaceae

#1 hummingbird attractor. Aromatic pest deterrent. 2-4 ft, spreads aggressively by rhizomes — needs containment or compact cultivars (Petite Delight 12-15 inches). PRONE TO POWDERY MILDEW — needs air circulation, avoid overhead watering. Divide every 3-5 years. Leaves used for herbal tea (bergamot flavor). Mid- to late summer bloom.

At a Glance

Sun
6+ hours
Container
Yes
Height
2–4 ft

Zone Planting Guide

Growing Guide

Watering

Needs Moderate

Resilience

Heat: Medium Cold: High Drought: Medium

Nutrition

Feeding Intensity Moderate feeder

Harvest

Flowers/foliage at desired stage

Sources

extension Multiple extension sources university_extension NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

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Bee Balm Planting Dates by Zone

Planting dates for Bee Balm vary by USDA hardiness zone. Select your zone below for frost dates, start-indoors timing, and a full monthly planting calendar.

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