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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