Spotted Beebalm

Monarda punctata

Special Warning:
Many plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae, are unsafe to consume during pregnancy. Always consult with your physician before consuming any new plant.

Overview

Spotted beebalm, also known as Horsemint, is a delicious herb that belongs in every kitchen and Florida garden. Its gorgeous flowers and bracts attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators, and like the leaves can be eaten fresh or dried. The main aromatic and medicinal compound found in the plant is Thymol, the same antiseptic and antifungal compound that gives Thyme and Oregano their distinctive flavor. The leaves taste very similar to Oregano while the bracts have a refreshing, somewhat minty flavor, and the flowers have a peppery bite. Grows well in sandy, well-drained soil. Prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade. Dried, hollow stems provide overwinter nesting habitat for solitary bees.

Germination Instructions

Surface sow, seeds require sunlight to germinate.

Ethnobotany

Traditionally used by various peoples as a remedy for gastrointestinal problems and fever, and as a topical medicine. Commonly consumed as a tea or as a seasoning in food. See http://naeb.brit.org/uses/search/?string=monarda+punctata for citations.

Disclaimer
We are not medical experts and we do not make medical claims. The inclusion of ethnobotanical citations or data is for educational purposes only and should not be understood as an endorsement or guarantee of safety or efficacy. Always consult with a physician before consuming any new plant.