Dotted Horsemint

Dotted Horsemint is an herbaceous perennial native to the eastern U.S. This plant stands out with its distinctive tiered, spike-like flower clusters. The yellow tubular flowers have spots, grow in rows, and feature lavender, leaf-like bracts separating each row of flowers. Dotted Horsemint blooms from late spring through fall. This plant is also known as Monarda punctata or bee balm.

This is a clump-forming plant with an upright, well-branched growth habit. Green lance-shaped leaves have pointed tips. Dotted Horsemint is popular with pollinators like bees and butterflies. Display Dotted Horsemint in a mass planting or a butterfly garden. This plant is drought tolerant, making it an easy plant to maintain once it is established.  

Dotted Horsemint Care

Plant Dotted Horsemint in full sun to partial shade. This plant needs at least 2 to 6 hours of sunlight. The soil should be well drained, but Dotted Horsemint can comfortably grow in poor-quality soil with a neutral pH. Water newly planted Dotted Horsemint until established; otherwise, only water during a drought or dry spell. Feed Dotted Horsemint with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer annually in the spring.

Pinch back young growth at the top of the plant early in the growing season to create a dense, bushy plant. Remove spent flowers to prevent the plant from self-seeding and to keep the blooms coming, extending the flower cycle. Dotted Horsemint is an herbaceous perennial; all growth can be removed after the first frost.

Dotted Horsemint Spacing

Dotted Horsemint can grow 1 to 2 feet tall. Leave at least one foot between plants or more space if you want the perennial to fill in with time. Two plants can be grown in a 12-inch container.