Monarda punctata
Zones 3-8
20 seeds
Ontario Native
Quite distinctive and unusual, the bright lavender and yellow bracts of the gorgeous Dotted Mint (also known as Horsemint) appear to be flowers but are actually leaves surrounding the true flowers.
This aromatic plant is a great source of nectar for butterflies.
Monarda punctata naturally occurs in dry soils or thin woods.
This showy wildflower performs well in the garden and also provides for unusual cut flowers.
Many butterflies and other pollinators visit Monarda punctata and it is a major nectar plant for the rare Karner Blue Butterfly!
Plant type: perennial
Height:1-2 feet (30-60cm)
Site: full sun to part shade
Plant spacing: 0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Sow seed 3 mm (1/8 inch) deep
outdoors in either late fall or early spring