Flower Library
Bee Balm
Monarda · Lippenblütler (Lamiaceae)
Bee balm is one of the most characterful summer flowers of all: shaggy, finely fringed flower crowns in vivid tones, paired with a spicy, aromatic scent reminiscent of bergamot and mint. In our summer bouquets it brings wild, naturalistic accents. Because we buy fresh at the Veiling Rhein-Maas, it reaches you in A1 quality and stays correspondingly sturdy.
- Season
- June – July – August – September – October
- Vase life
- 7–12 days
- Latin name
- Monarda
- Colors
- Red, Scarlet, Pink, Violet, Purple, White, Salmon pink
Botanically, bee balm belongs to the genus Monarda in the mint family (Lamiaceae). The most relevant species for floristry are Monarda didyma (Oswego tea) with red to scarlet blooms and Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) in softer lilac and pink tones. Both form the characteristic whorled flower heads that sit like little fireworks on the stem.
In floristry, bee balm is a classic summer solitaire for the naturalistic style. Its irregular flower shape gives every bouquet movement and stops it from looking too smooth or staged. We love to use it in cottage-garden bouquets, country arrangements and loose seasonal designs where a touch of the wild is wanted.
When buying, we look for straight, strong stems, fresh foliage free of mildew spots and flower heads that are just beginning to open. This is exactly where direct buying at the auction pays off: no long detours through wholesale, and therefore longer-lasting stems. The aromatic leaves release an intense scent when cut, a further sign of good variety quality.
Monarda combines beautifully with other summer perennials: coneflower, yarrow, phlox, cow parsley and ornamental grasses together create colourful, natural images. Tone on tone with dahlias or zinnias it looks lush, while with grasses and umbellifers it feels airy and modern. Dried, it keeps its striking structure and works well in long-lasting dried bouquets.
Care
- 01Cut the stems at an angle with a sharp knife and place them immediately in clean, lukewarm water.
- 02Remove any leaves that would sit below the water line; the foliage rots quickly and clouds the water otherwise.
- 03Keep the vase in a cool spot out of direct sun, and avoid draughts and proximity to fruit (ethylene).
- 04Change the water every two days and re-cut the stems each time, which noticeably extends vase life.
- 05Pick out faded individual florets from the flower head so the bouquet stays fresh and tidy for longer.
- 06Add flower food to the water; Monarda rewards it with especially sturdy, upright flower heads.
Frequently asked
- How long does bee balm last in a vase?
- With good care, bee balm lasts roughly 7 to 12 days. Freshly cut stems, clean water and a cool location are decisive. Thanks to our direct buying in A1 quality, the stems start their vase life especially fresh.
- Is bee balm toxic to cats, dogs or children?
- No, bee balm is regarded as non-toxic and does not appear on the ASPCA list of toxic plants. It is traditionally even used as a tea and culinary herb and is considered safe for dogs and cats. As with any ornamental, larger ingested amounts may cause mild stomach upset, so pets and children should not eat it.
- When is bee balm in season?
- The main season runs from June to October, peaking in the summer months of July and August. During this time we source it fresh and in best quality at the Veiling Rhein-Maas.
- What does bee balm smell like?
- Above all the leaves give off a spicy, aromatic scent when touched or cut, reminiscent of bergamot, mint and thyme. This is also the origin of one of its German names, Goldmelisse.