Monarda Punctata Seeds – 100 Spotted Bee Balm Native Wildflower for Pollinators

Monarda punctata, commonly known as spotted bee balm or horsemint, is a native North American wildflower prized for its unusual tiered blooms and strong pollinator appeal. The flowers form stacked whorls of pale yellow to creamy petals dotted with purple spots, surrounded by showy pinkish to lavender bracts that create a distinctive layered look in the garden.

This drought-tolerant perennial is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, native plant landscapes, meadow plantings, and low-water borders. Its minty, oregano-like foliage adds texture and fragrance, and the plant naturalizes well in suitable conditions.

Plant Features

• Native wildflower with unique stacked, spotted blooms
• Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Drought tolerant once established
• Aromatic foliage with a mint-like scent
• Showy pinkish to lavender bracts surround the flowers

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Monarda punctata
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Water Requirements: Low to medium; drought tolerant once established
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming
• Bloom Season: Summer to early fall
• Mature Height: Typically 1 to 3 feet
• Spacing: 12 to 18 inches apart

Planting & Care

Sow Monarda punctata seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface without covering deeply, as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 14 to 21 days at around 65 to 70°F.

Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, transplant them into well-drained garden soil in a sunny location. Water regularly during the first growing season to help plants establish. After establishment, spotted bee balm is relatively low-maintenance and drought tolerant. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering, or allow seed heads to mature for self-sowing and winter interest.

What's Included

100 Monarda punctata seeds (spotted bee balm).