Quick answer: Lemon beebalm (Monarda citriodora) is native to 10 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Alex Abair, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low water, Dry |
| Soil | Sandy loam to rocky soils, also sandy/clay loam/medium loam |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Jul |
| Height | Up to 30 in tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts bees and butterflies, nectar for hummingbirds, highly deer-resistant |
none noted (can become aggressive/forms large colonies under optimum conditions — growing note, not invasive designation)
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Lemon beebalm
Where is Lemon beebalm native?
Lemon beebalm (Monarda citriodora) is native to 10 states across the South and West. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Lemon beebalm bloom?
Lemon beebalm blooms May-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Lemon beebalm need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: Low water, Dry. Soil: Sandy loam to rocky soils, also sandy/clay loam/medium loam. Mature height: Up to 30 in tall.
Is Lemon beebalm good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts bees and butterflies, nectar for hummingbirds, highly deer-resistant.
Is Lemon beebalm deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Lemon beebalm is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy real Lemon beebalm seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Monarda citriodora on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Lemon beebalm.
- Eastern purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea
- Hollow Joe-pye weed Eutrochium fistulosum
- Pink evening primrose Oenothera speciosa
- Grayhead coneflower Ratibida pinnata
- Mexican hat Ratibida columnifera
- Indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans
Also listed under
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