Dotted Mint
Monarda punctata has been gaining in popularity in recent years, due to it's well deserved reputation as a pollinator magnet. Aromatic and colorful, the lavender-pink and yellow petals are actually leafy bracts that …
Soil Type | Gravel, Sand |
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Soil Moisture | Dry |
Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
Height | 1' - 2' |
Bloom Color | Lavender, Pink, Cream |
Bloom Time | July, Aug, Sep |
Spacing | 1' |
Hardiness Zones | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 |
Root Type | Fibrous |
Benefits | Pollinators, Host Plant, Deer Resistant |
Seeds per Oz | 94000 |
Propagation | Dry Stratification |
Direct Sowing | Spring, Early Summer, Fall |
Monarda punctata, or Dotted Mint, has been gaining in popularity in recent years, due to it's well deserved reputation as a pollinator magnet. Aromatic and colorful, the lavender-pink and yellow petals are actually leafy bracts that surround the true flower. Attractive to a multitude of pollinators, it is a favorite source of nectar for the rare Karner Blue butterfly. Combined it with Lupine for optimal Karner Blue support.
Dotted Mint strongly prefers full sun and dry sandy soil, where it will thrive along with other low-growing species. This bienniel self-seeds readily on open soil, but is not overly aggressive. In less optimal conditions, such as a richer soil, individual plants may not compete well with other larger plants.
As a host plant, Dotted Mint is associated mainly with the Gray Marvel moth (Agriopodes teratophora).