Bee Balm
This flower is a favorite of bees, hummingbirds and butterflies hence it’s common name of “bee balm”. This Kansas native perennial is a member of the mint family with square stems and can grow to a height of 4’ tall. The native Bee balm has pale purple to pink blooms but there are several cultivated varieties that have bloom colors ranging from white to dark purple to red and are far more compact than the native version. Bee balms are very long blooming perennials typically blooming in Late June through August. The Native American’s used this plant for a variety of medicinal purposes ranging from treating colds and fevers to stomach pains, acne and respiratory difficulties. They would also use the leaves for a tea and to perfume their hair and clothes. Bee balm prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade. It is very tolerant of drought conditions once it is established but it prefers moist soil and is commonly found in roadside ditches, along stream banks and throughout pastures. Bee Balm is prone to powdery mildew in shady conditions or when watered overhead so care should be taken to water the base of the plant.
