Although its leaves are edible, it's sometimes referred to as 'lemon mint' and it's in the mint family Lamiaceae, Monarda citrodora is not a true mint.
Monardas have very distinctive shaggy, dome-shaped flower-heads comprising curving tube-shaped petals, which are extremely attractive to bees. Monarda citrodora flowers from mid to late summer, and blooms almost continuously if deadheaded regularly. The foliage is aromatic with a soft hint of lemon, and leaves are sometimes used in teas and for potpourri arrangements.
Grow Monarda citrodora in a free-draining soil in full sun and divide clumps every three years.
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Monarda and wildlife
Monarda is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
