seeds: Monarda punctata (spotted bee balm)
 
Seed information
 
Seed sowing instructions
 
A: Seed should germinate when sown in a warm location. 
 
D: Sow on the surface of the soil. Generally these seeds are very small.
 
For improved germination in this species = C: (90). Seeds germinate after a period of cold, moist stratification. Mix seeds with a handful of damp vermiculite or clean sand (moist—but not wet). Place mixture in a sealed plastic bag and store in a refrigerator, NOT the freezer.
 
You can find more information about how to sow native seeds HERE.
 
Includes a brochure with instructions on how to sow native seeds.
 
Plant information
 
Spotted beebalm, or horsemint, has the coolest foliage of all the Monarda. Narrow purple-tinted leaves branch out from the purple stems, and the flowers that do blossom are a cream-purple color with spots.
 
The scent is slightly different from other Monarda in that it is reminiscent of oregano. M. punctata grows slightly shorter than it’s cousins, between 1-2 feet tall.
 
These plants grow well in sandy soils, and are considered to be short-lived perennials. This means you should expect to see these go dormant for a year or so, and if allowed to reseed, will reappear. The garden is ever-changing!