Plant of Merit 2008

This Born in America, Eastern beebalm is tolerant of a great range of growing, light and moisture conditions. The tubular, two-lipped, pinkish to whitish, purple-spotted flowers form puff of flowers that rest at the top of the stems. Sometimes sitting flat on top, or cocked slightly to the side, the flower heads look like a display of feathery ladies hats in the window of an old fashion shop. Preferring average moisture, acidic soils and morning sun, it is surprisingly tolerant of drought, full sun, common clay soils and drying winds.

Only 1-2’ tall, flowering is best when spent blooms are removed. This enjoyable garden activity significantly increases flowering potential and length of bloom. Well behaved and naturally healthy, this native beebalm is tough but not rampant in a managed landscape. An underused member of the Monarda family, it is a hummingbird and butterfly magnet that should be a welcomed addition to habitat gardens as well as perennial borders. This Missouri beebalm species is occasionally seen in dryish, acidic soils in open, rocky woods and glade margins. Disease resistant, it is rarely bothered with the mildew that plagues many common beebalms. In its natural setting it attempts to relocate to a better circumstance by self-seeding. In a cultivated space, it relishing having worn flowers removed and a defined space to call home that it minimizes its propagating tendencies. Encourage its natural clump-forming habit by root pruning around the base in early spring. This will also encourage strong upright growth.

Garden Centers and Nurseries are planning now for the 2008 Growing season and you should plan too! This plant has “Merit” and will receive its Plant of Merit recognition in January of 2008.