Contents
Description
Monarda Clinopodioides, commonly known as Basil Bee Balm or White Bergamot, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to North America and has a height of 1 to 2 feet. This plant produces white or light lavender flowers that bloom in early summer and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The leaves of Monarda Clinopodioides are lance-shaped, aromatic, and have a minty taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Monarda |
| Species | Monarda Clinopodioides |
Appearance
Monarda Clinopodioides has lance-shaped leaves that are 2 to 3 inches long and 1/2 to 1 inch wide. The leaves have a dark green color and are aromatic, emitting a minty fragrance when crushed or brushed. This plant produces white or light lavender flowers that are tubular and clustered in dense, round heads. The flowers are about 1 inch long and bloom in early summer. The stem of Monarda Clinopodioides is square-shaped and hairy.
Care Guide
Monarda Clinopodioides thrives in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9. Water this plant regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Fertilize Monarda Clinopodioides with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This plant benefits from a layer of mulch to keep the soil moist and cool.
Common Pests & Diseases
Monarda Clinopodioides can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant. Spider mites and aphids can also infest this plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Monarda Clinopodioides is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This plant is often used in wildflower gardens, perennial borders, and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Monarda Clinopodioides a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Monarda Clinopodioides produces flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: How often should I water Monarda Clinopodioides?
A: Water this plant regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Monarda Clinopodioides?
A: Monarda Clinopodioides is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Q: Does Monarda Clinopodioides have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, Monarda Clinopodioides has been used in traditional medicine to treat colds, fevers, and digestive issues.
Related Plants
- Monarda Didyma
- Monarda Fistulosa
- Monarda Punctata
- Monarda Citriodora
References
- “Monarda Clinopodioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b325.
- “Monarda Clinopodioides.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:450609-1.
- “Monarda Clinopodioides.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/monarda-clinopodioides.
