Bee Balm Seeds, Lemon
A bee gathers pollen from a Lemon Bee Balm flower growing in the gardens at Baker Creek.
A close-up detail of Lemon Bee Balm flowers.
A couple of laughing children holding a bouquet of Lemon Bee Balm against a red background.
Stems of Lemon Bee Balm flowers on a grey background.
Lemon Bee Balm arranged in glass vase against a white background.
A gardener holds a bouquet of Lemon Bee Balm blooms in the garden with flowers blooming in the background.
Bee Balm Seeds, Lemon
A bee gathers pollen from a Lemon Bee Balm flower growing in the gardens at Baker Creek.
A close-up detail of Lemon Bee Balm flowers.
A couple of laughing children holding a bouquet of Lemon Bee Balm against a red background.
Stems of Lemon Bee Balm flowers on a grey background.
Lemon Bee Balm arranged in glass vase against a white background.
A gardener holds a bouquet of Lemon Bee Balm blooms in the garden with flowers blooming in the background.

Bee Balm Seeds,
Lemon

4.236 Reviews#HB124 · 100 seeds
Price
Regular price $3.25
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.25
Save $-3.25
/

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Monarda citriodora). Fresh, citrusy notes rise from soft green leaves that brew into a bright, refreshing tea while pulling in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds like a garden jam session. This native annual is as useful as it is beautiful—perfect for teas, desserts, savory dishes, and herbal blends. Easy to grow and quick to bloom, it brings flavor, fragrance, and pollinator energy all season long. A feel-good plant that feeds both the kitchen and the garden soul.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Monarda citriodora
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
115
Planting Depth
Surface sow
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–70°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Lemon bee balm can be started indoors, and set outside after the last frost or direct sown in the garden, two weeks before the last frost. This herb is hardy in USDA zones 2-11, making it adaptable to a wide range of environments. It grows quickly, and blooms throughout the summer. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

To start lemon bee balm from seeds, scatter the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them in, as they require light for germination. There is no need to cover them with soil. Thin seedlings to about 12 inches apart once they are large enough to handle. This spacing helps prevent overcrowding, which can reduce airflow and increase the risk of powdery mildew.

How to Grow

Lemon bee balm can tolerate poor soils but for better growth, you can add organic matter such as compost. The plant prefers well-draining soil to avoid root rot and other moisture-related issues. Prune the plants regularly to encourage bushier growth and more blooms, and deadhead spent flowers to extend the blooming season. Be mindful of its spreading nature; in optimal conditions, it can self-seed and become somewhat invasive​.

How to Save Seeds

Seeds usually mature 1-3 weeks after flowers bloom. To test, bend the spent head into a bag and tap. If the seeds are brown, they are ready. Spread them out and allow them to dry for 2-3 days. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place.

FAQ

Is Lemon bee balm resistant to pests?

Generally, lemon bee balm is pest-resistant. However, it may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites, which can be managed by handpicking or spraying with water.

Can Lemon bee balm be grown in containers?

Yes, it can be grown in containers, provided they are large enough to accommodate its root system and have good drainage.

Does Lemon bee balm attract pollinators?

Yes, the aromatic flowers of lemon bee balm are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

Browse our full range of bee balm seeds.

Customer reviews

4.2 / 5 36 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Unusual stacked blooms: Tiered purple flowers, lovely in the bed, cut or dried.

  • Hummingbird and bee magnet: Bumblebees and hummingbirds visit daily, well into fall.

  • Heat and drought tough: Shrugs off 90-degree days with little water or care.

  • Blooms the first year: Slow to start, then shoots up and flowers by early summer.

  • Give tall plants support: Plants reach 3 to 4 feet and may flop; stake them.

More to grow!

See all Bee Balm Seeds