Basil Beebalm
Monarda clinopodia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Monarda clinopodia (Basil Beebalm) is a native perb blooming June through August across eastern and midwestern states. This white-flowered mint family member attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds in partial sun to shade.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CT, DE, IL and 11 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Basil beebalm is a native perennial that produces clusters of white or pale pink tubular flowers from June through August. This medium-height plant forms neat clumps and has aromatic foliage similar to its more common red-flowered cousin.
Growing Basil Beebalm
Grow Basil Beebalm in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Basil Beebalm is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter
- May spread gradually by underground stems
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are excellent for attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies throughout the summer months. This native monarda species provides important nectar sources during peak growing season.
Common questions
- When does Basil Beebalm bloom?
- Monarda clinopodia blooms from June through August, producing clusters of white tubular flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Basil Beebalm?
- Basil Beebalm attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich white flowers during summer months.
- Where is Monarda clinopodia native?
- Basil Beebalm is native to eastern and midwestern states including Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- What growing conditions does Basil Beebalm prefer?
- Monarda clinopodia tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and adapts to various moisture levels, though it performs well in medium moisture soils.
- Is Basil Beebalm HOA-friendly?
- Basil Beebalm is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Basil Beebalm? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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