Local Ecotype
Russel’s Beebalm, also known as Red-Purple Beebalm, is a slender species of Beebalm native to upland forests of the south-central US. This ecotype hails from the dry piney slopes of the Ouachita Mountains. The delicate, narrow flower tubes range from white to lavender and are studded with purple spots. Red-purple Beebalm is an earlier bloomer than other Monarda, often beginning in April and continuing through June. The blooms are visited by primarily hummingbirds and butterflies that are able to reach into the thin flowers for nectar. This species makes wonderful herbal tea, and is our favorite flavor profile among the beebalms!
Russel’s Beebalm grows well in full sun to part shade, in mesic to dry soils. This species has good drought tolerance and is more shade tolerant than other beebalms. It also boasts better mildew resistance than other Monarda. This dainty ecotype generally grows around 8-24 inches high, and may slowly form small colonies.
Local Ecotype
Russel’s Beebalm, also known as Red-Purple Beebalm, is a slender species of Beebalm native to upland forests of the south-central US. This ecotype hails from the dry piney slopes of the Ouachita Mountains. The delicate, narrow flower tubes range from white to lavender and are studded with purple spots. Red-purple Beebalm is an earlier bloomer than other Monarda, often beginning in April and continuing through June. The blooms are visited by primarily hummingbirds and butterflies that are able to reach into the thin flowers for nectar. This species makes wonderful herbal tea, and is our favorite flavor profile among the beebalms!
Russel’s Beebalm grows well in full sun to part shade, in mesic to dry soils. This species has good drought tolerance and is more shade tolerant than other beebalms. It also boasts better mildew resistance than other Monarda. This dainty ecotype generally grows around 8-24 inches high, and may slowly form small colonies.