Scarlet Beebalm

Scientific Name: Monarda didyma L. 
Common Name: Scarlet Beebalm  
Plant Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)  

Etymology: Monarda is in recognition of Nicolas Monardes, a Spanish physician, who authored an early herbal that introduced Europe to many of the plants from North America. The species name didyma translates from the Latin meaning "in pairs" or "twins" referring to the stamens occurring in pairs. 

Indigenous Uses

Native Americans and early colonists used bee balm leaves and flowers to make medicinal salves and drinks. The leaves and flowers are also edible and can be used in herbal teas, salads, and as garnishes. 

• Abortifacient — Used for female obstructions.  
• Analgesic — Poultice of leaves used for headache.  
• Carminative — Used carminative for colic and flatulence.  
• Cold Remedy — Poultice of leaves used for colds.  
• Diaphoretic — Used as a diaphoretic.  
• Diuretic — Used as a diuretic. 
• Febrifuge — Hot infusion of leaf used to "bring out measles" and infusion used as febrifuge.  
• Gastrointestinal Aid — Infusion of leaf and plant top taken for weak bowels and stomach.  
• Heart Medicine — Infusion used for heart trouble.  
• Hemostat — Infusion of leaf or root taken orally and wiped on head for nosebleed.  
• Misc. Disease — Remedy Infusion of leaf used to "bring out measles" and infusion used to "sweat off flu."  
• Sedative — Used for hysterics and restful sleep.  

Edible Parts

Leaves and flowers.

Gathering and Using

Bee balm can be harvested by cutting the main stem flower just as it begins to open up. The plant's side shoots can also be cut for indoor arrangements. The leaves and flowers can be used fresh or dried for various culinary and medicinal purposes. 

Permaculture Functions and Considerations

Bee balm can be grown in a forest garden as a medicinal and edible plant. It attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to a permaculture design. 

Habitat

Bee balm is native to North America and can be found in meadows, prairies, and woodland edges. 

How to Identify

Bee balm is a perennial plant that grows 2-4 feet tall. It has tubular flowers in various colors, including white, pink, red, lavender, and purple. The plant has aromatic foliage and belongs to the mint family. 

Wildlife Support

Bee balm attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The seed heads also provide food for birds in the fall and winter. 

Additional Information

Bee balm is known for its resistance to powdery mildew. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant blooms in summer and is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9. 

Sources

• The Old Farmer's Almanac 
• Missouri Botanical Garden 
• North Carolina State University Extension 
• United States Department of Agriculture 
• U.S. Forest Service
• Native American Ethnobotany by Daniel E. Moerman