Bee-Mine™ Red Bee Balm

Bee-Mine™ Red is a compact, upright bee balm selected for early flowering and a vivid red display. Darwin Perennials reports that it flowers in its first year and has high resistance to powdery mildew. ## Flowers and size The breeder lists late-spring through summer flowering, red blooms, and a mature height of 15–18 inches and width of 14–16 inches. Its plant-protection record identifies the selection as ‘Balbeemed’ (USPP33917). The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; the foliage is aromatic when crushed. [Darwin Perennials: Bee-Mine™ Red](https://www.darwinperennials.com/Products/Details/?phid=042509262004463) ## Siting Plant in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. North Carolina Extension notes that Monarda didyma tolerates some shade and works well in perennial borders and pollinator gardens. Good air circulation and watering at soil level can help reduce powdery mildew risk. [NC State Extension: Monarda didyma](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/monarda-didyma/common-name/bee-balm/) ## Maintenance Leave some hollow stems standing through winter for stem-nesting native bees, then cut back old growth in spring. The breeder reports resistance to mildew, but good spacing and avoiding overhead watering remain useful garden practices.