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Plains Beebalm

Monarda pectinata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Plains Beebalm (Monarda pectinata)
Photo: Alex Abair / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, KS and 6 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, hummingbirds

Plains beebalm is a compact native perennial that produces clusters of white or pale pink tubular flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant wildflower forms neat clumps and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Plains Beebalm is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.

  • May look sparse in winter as herbaceous perennial
  • Flowers might be considered too 'wildflower-like' for conservative HOAs

Wildlife value

The tubular flowers are magnets for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources during hot summer months when other flowers may struggle.

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.

Does Plains Beebalm fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.