Spotted Beebalm

Spotted bee balm is an aromatic, clump-forming perennial with layered whorls of pale flowers, purple-spotted corollas and conspicuous pale bracts. It brings a distinctive summer-to-fall display to sunny, well-drained plantings and supports a variety of pollinators. ## Garden use and care The species is native to the eastern United States and occurs in open prairies, sandy ground, rocky woodland edges and coastal plain habitats. It grows in full sun or part shade and tolerates occasional dry soil, though good drainage is important. Its flowering stems also work well in cut-flower arrangements, and the narrow foliage has an oregano-like scent. Allow room for a clump to expand, but monitor its rhizomes in smaller beds. ## Maintenance Remove spent flower stems to keep the planting tidy; retain some seedheads if you want the plant to self-sow. Divide crowded clumps when growth slows. [NC State Extension: Monarda punctata](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/monarda-punctata/).