Lemon Beebalm (Monarda citriodora)

JUNE-AUGUST

Mintleaf Beebalm Monarda citriodora Cerv. (MINT FAMILY)

Lemon beebalm is an erect, aromatic annual 1-3 ft tall. The simple to branched stem is square and usually and pubescent. The opposite leaves are commonly oblong to lanceolate, pubescent, often folded, and more or less serrate. Both leaves and flowers are dotted with glands which secrete volatile, aromatic oils. The inflorescence is an interrupted spike with tubular white to pale lavender flowers with bilabiate corollas mixed with leafy bracts. The plant has a fragrant citrus-like smell.