This species of bee balm is often selected for the home garden due to its red flowers, in contrast to the pink flowers of other species of bee balms. Scarlet Bee Balm is in the mint family so has a square stem and fragrant foliage. This Bee Balm is not native to Illinois, but has naturalized in some counties. It is native in the northeastern U.S.
Pollinator Type
Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, caterpillars
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
4 to 9
Height
2 to 4 ft.
Spread
2 to 3 ft.
Light
Partial Shade, Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Medium Soil, Wet Soil
Bloom Color
Red
Bloom Time
July, August, September
Design Considerations
A great species to include in any pollinator garden design in a large mass. Allow room for spread since it can spread aggressively through rhizomes. Use as a borders, in a more naturalized, or along ponds or streams.
Care and Maintenance
Deadhead flowers to prolong summer bloom. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
Pest and Diseases
Repels mammals. Susceptible to powdery mildew.
Establishment and Propagation
Root division, softwood cuttings, plugs, or seeds
Commercial Availability
Rarely available
Alternative Plant Selections
Wild Bergamot, Bradbury's Bee Balm
Native Status
Non-native to Illinois
Fall Color
Leaves can turn red in the fall
Growth habit
Clump-forming herbaceous plants that spreads through rhizomes.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
