Origin
The Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora, commonly known as lemon beebalm, is a member of the mint family native to North America. It is often found growing in dry and rocky soil, particularly in the southern United States.
Common Names
In addition to lemon beebalm, this plant is known by several other common names, including lemon mint, lemon horsemint, lemon bergamot, and Plains horsemint.
Uses
The lemon-scented leaves and flowers of Monarda citriodora are often used in tea blends, both for culinary and medicinal purposes. The plant has antibacterial properties and has been used traditionally to treat colds, fevers, and digestive problems. Additionally, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Lemon beebalm is a beautiful green shrub that can grow up to 3 feet in height. It has square stems that are covered with fine hairs and narrow leaves that are bright green and very aromatic. The flowers bloom in terminal clusters and are light purple or pink in color, often with dark purple spots near the base of the petals. The plant has a very distinctive lemony scent that is strongly aromatic.
Light Requirements
Monarda citriodora ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora is a sun-loving plant and requires full sun to partial shade for healthy growth. The plant thrives in bright light, especially during the blooming season.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Monarda citriodora ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora is between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The plant is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) during winter. However, it is advisable to protect young and newly planted plants during cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Monarda citriodora ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora grows well in well-draining fertile soil. The plant requires soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter that aids in water retention and nutrient absorption. Monarda citriodora ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora is adaptable to different soil types, including loamy, sandy, and rocky soil, as long as it is well-draining.
Cultivation Methods
The Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora plant grows well in hot and dry conditions and requires full sun exposure to thrive. It prefers well-draining and sandy soils; therefore, avoid planting it in compact or waterlogged soils.
It is best to start planting Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora in spring after the last frost. You can also propagate it through cuttings or division during the same period. It typically reaches a height of about 18 inches, and you should plant it about 12-15 inches apart for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora requires moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry and hot weather. However, you should avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
The watering frequency will depend on the weather conditions and the moisture levels of your soil. In general, you should water the plant once or twice a week, depending on how quickly the soil dries out.
Fertilization
Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora benefits from regular fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every four to six weeks during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients.
Additionally, you can also use organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or bone meal to enrich the soil and promote healthy growth. However, avoid excessive use of fertilizers as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce the plant's resistance to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy or overcrowded. You can use hand pruners or scissors to trim the stems at the base of the plant during the dormant season to encourage new growth.
Additionally, you should also deadhead the flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from redirecting its energy to seed production.
Note: Always use sanitized tools to prune or trim your plants to prevent the spread of diseases.Propagation of Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora
Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora is commonly known as lemon bee balm, purple horsemint, and lemon mint. This herbaceous plant belongs to the mint or Lamiaceae family and is native to North America. Propagation of this plant can be done through three methods - seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest method of propagating Monarda citriodora is through seeds. The plant produces numerous small seeds that can be readily collected from the dried flower heads. Seed collection should be done when the flower heads are brown and seeds start to fall from them. Once the seeds have been collected, they can be stored in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. To plant the seeds, they should be sown during spring in well-draining soil in full sunlight. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which will take place in approximately 10 to 20 days.
Propagation by division
Monarda citriodora can also be propagated through division. This method is primarily used to rejuvenate an established plant and multiply its number. The plant should be dug up carefully, ensuring the root system is not damaged. The plant can then be divided into several sections using a sharp, sterile knife. These sections can then be replanted in individual pots or directly in the garden in well-draining soil. This method should be done during spring or fall months.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Monarda citriodora can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken at the end of summer when the plant is in its full growth stage. Cuttings should be around 3 to 5 inches long and should be stripped of their lower leaves. These cuttings should then be planted in well-draining soil that has been moistened. The soil should be kept moist, and new growth will typically appear in two to three weeks.
Disease management
Monarda citriodora Cerv. ex Lag. ssp. citriodora var. parva Scora is generally susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections that may hinder its growth progression. One of the most common diseases that affects this plant is powdery mildew. It is characterized by the growth of white powdery patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, leading to stunted growth and eventual death of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plants, ensure proper air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, spraying the plant with a mixture of baking soda, soap, and water can also be helpful.
Another common disease that affects the Monarda plant is leaf spot, which is caused by fungi such as Septoria and Phyllosticta. It is characterized by the presence of circular or angular spots on the leaves, leading to premature leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plants, avoid overcrowding, and water the plant at the base to prevent the foliage from getting wet.
Pest management
The Monarda plant is also prone to attack by pests such as aphids and spider mites, which suck sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing, distortion, and eventual death of the plant. To manage aphids and spider mites, it is essential to spray the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a mixture of water and dish soap to suffocate and kill the pests.
Caterpillars, such as the Monarda flower borer, may also attack the Monarda plant. These pests damage the developing flower buds, leading to their premature death. To manage caterpillars, picking them off by hand or spraying the plant with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be helpful.
Additionally, the Monarda plant may also attract Japanese beetles, which feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits. To manage Japanese beetles, handpicking them off or using pheromone traps can be helpful. It is essential to avoid using harmful pesticides, which may kill beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies that help in pollination.
