Monarda citriodora

Monarda citriodora is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the United States and Mexico, where it is commonly known as lemon beebalm or purple horsemint.

Description

Monarda citriodora is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to 70 cm tall. The leaves are lanceolate to ovate, and the flowers are purple, pink, or white, with a distinctive lemony scent. The plant blooms from May to July.

Distribution and habitat

Monarda citriodora is found in a wide range of habitats, from prairies and fields to roadsides and disturbed areas. It is native to the southern United States and northern Mexico, but has been introduced to other parts of the world.

Uses

Monarda citriodora has a long history of use by Native American tribes for medicinal and culinary purposes. The leaves are often used in teas, and the plant is also used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and analgesic properties.

Cultivation

Monarda citriodora is a popular plant for butterfly and hummingbird gardens. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and is drought-tolerant once established.

Conservation status

While Monarda citriodora is not currently considered threatened, its habitat is being lost to urban development and agriculture.

See also

• Monarda
• Lamiaceae
• Medicinal plants