MONARDA citriodora (Lemon Mint)
Monarda citriodora is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae, that is native to much of the United States and Mexico. Common names include ‘Lemon beebalm’, ‘Lemon Mint’ and ‘Purple Horsemint’. When crushed, the leaves emit an odor reminiscent of lemons. The essential oil of lemon beebalm contains citronellol, which makes it useful as an insect repellent. Some people use lemon beebalm as an addition to salads and teas.
| Number of Seeds | Max Coverage Area (Square Ft.) | |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5OZ | 37,500 | 500 |
| 1OZ | 75,000 | 1,000 |
| 1/4LB | 300,000 | 4,000 |
| 1/2LB | 600,000 | 8,000 |
| 1LB | 1,200,000 | 16,000 |
| 5LB | 6,000,000 | 80,000 |
Scientific Name: Monarda Citriodora
Common Name: Lemon Mint
Plant Type: Annual
Family: Lamiaceae
Native Range: Central and Southern United States, Northern Mexico
Height: 12-30 "
Spread: 9-12 "
Habitat: Limestone barrens and slopes, Prairies, Savannahs and roadsides in Texas
Zone: USDA Hardiness 5 to 9
Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
Blooming Season: Late Spring, Early Summer/Late Summer
Attracts: Hummingbirds, Butterflies, Bees
Resistant: Deer, Drought
Flower Color: Lavender to Pink-white
Moisture: Dry to medium
Water Requirement: Water it regularly and don’t overwater the soil
Soil Type: Clay, Loam and Sandy
Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Basic (Alkaline)
Advantage: Can grow easily and Low maintenance
Uses: An essential oil in the leaves contains a phenol and a citrus (used as an insect repellent and in perfumery)