Contents
Description
Monarda Russeliana is a flowering herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to North America and is commonly known as the “Russell’s Bee Balm” or “Purple Horsemint.” This plant produces bright purple flowers that bloom in summer and attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The leaves of Monarda Russeliana are fragrant and can be used in teas or as a seasoning in cooking.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Monarda |
Appearance
Monarda Russeliana can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has square stems that are green and hairy. The leaves are lance-shaped, 2-3 inches long, and dark green in color. The flowers are tubular, about 1 inch long, and grow in whorls around the stem. They are bright purple with a darker purple spot on the lower lip of the flower. The plant blooms in mid-summer and continues blooming through fall.
Care Guide
Monarda Russeliana is easy to care for, making it an excellent addition to any garden. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Monarda Russeliana in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Monarda Russeliana is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Monarda Russeliana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant.
- Crown rot: This bacterial disease can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die.
Habitat
Monarda Russeliana 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. The plant is attractive to pollinators and is often used in butterfly gardens or as a border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Monarda Russeliana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Monarda Russeliana can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Monarda Russeliana be fertilized?
A: Monarda Russeliana should be fertilized once in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Monarda Russeliana deer-resistant?
A: No, Monarda Russeliana is not deer-resistant.
Q: How often should Monarda Russeliana be watered?
A: Monarda Russeliana should be watered regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Monarda didyma (Bee Balm)
- Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot)
- Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm)
- Monarda punctata (Spotted Bee Balm)
References
- “Monarda russeliana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b405
- “Monarda russeliana.” North Carolina State University Extension. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/monarda-russeliana/
- “Monarda russeliana.” University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/russels-bee-balm-7-13-12.aspx
