Horse-mint (Monarda punctata, Sp. pl. 1:22. 1753)

Family: Lamiaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. pl. 1:22. 1753

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Monarda

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & E. U.S.A. to NE. Mexico

Description

Horse-mint, scientifically known as Monarda punctata, is a distinctive and attractive perennial herb that is native to regions from Central and Eastern United States extending to Northeastern Mexico. This plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family, a group known for its aromatic members and significant horticultural and culinary value.

Characterized by its intriguing flowers, Horse-mint produces striking whorls of tubular blossoms that range in color from pale yellow to creamy white, each accented with purple spots. These colorful blooms cluster at the top of erect, hairy stems and are surrounded by showy bracts that often show shades of pink or lavender, adding to the visual interest. Flowering typically occurs from midsummer to early autumn, making Horse-mint an eye-catching addition to gardens and natural landscapes during these seasons.

Horse-mint thrives in well-drained soils and can be found flourishing in sandy or rocky habitats, prairies, and open woodlands. Its resilience allows it to endure a variety of environmental conditions, making it a versatile plant for different types of landscapes. The plant’s robust nature, along with its aromatic qualities, makes it less susceptible to browsing by deer and other wildlife.

This species is particularly noted for its aromatic foliage, which exudes a strong, distinctive fragrance when crushed. The leaves are lanceolate to oblong, with a slightly serrated margin, and possess oil glands that release a scent commonly described as a mix of citronella and thyme. This aromatic quality not only adds to the sensory appeal of the plant but also has practical uses. Historically, indigenous peoples and early settlers utilized Horse-mint for its medicinal properties, leveraging its essential oils for treatments ranging from antiseptic applications to soothing teas.

Ecologically, Horse-mint plays a vital role in supporting pollinators. The nectar-rich flowers attract a myriad of insects, including bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens. Its ability to draw pollinators underscores its importance in maintaining biodiversity within its native range.

Enduring legacy and extensive adaptability have cemented Horse-mint’s status as a cherished plant within its native regions. It is not only appreciated for its beauty and hardiness but also for the rich historical and ecological benefits it provides. Whether in a natural prairie or a curated garden, Monarda punctata remains a testament to the beauty and utility of native plant species.

Common Names

Eng: dotted monarda, horse-mint, spotted beebalm, spotted horse mint, dotted horsemint
Deu: monarda, punktierte goldmelisse, punktierte indianernessel
Swe: prickig temynta
Fra: monarde ponctuée
En: Horse-mint, Dotted monarda, Spotted beebalm, Bee balm, Dotted Horsemint, Spotted Bee Balm, Spotted horsemint, Spotted Mint, Spotted horse mint
Fi: Pikkuväriminttu
Fr: Monarde ponctuée
De: Monarda, Punktierte Indianernessel, Mondara, Pferdeminze, Punktierte Goldmelisse
Nv: Azeeʼ ndootʼeezhí
Oj: Kah-be-sah-ne-gwa-y-yok
Ru: Монарда точечная
Sv: Prickig temynta
Uk: Монарда плямиста

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 25, 2019 by A Har (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 27, 2022 by Beth Robinson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 11, 2022 by Andrea Van Scoyoc (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 9, 2020 by Rebekah Rebekah Berndt (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 22, 2021 by Jakob Hostetter (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 27, 2020 by reiniku (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 17, 2019 by LaDonna GardenGirl (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 8, 2019 by Brandt Brian (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 26, 2022 by Gary Arnold (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2019 by deb Lower (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Chaitali Saqcena (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2022 by Robyn x (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 1, 2020 by vickie templeton (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 6, 2014 by EOL − Daniel Carter (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 10, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 9, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 8, 2014 by EOL − Linda Jo Conn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 27, 2013 by EOL − Linda Gail Price (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 4, 2020 by Donald Awbrey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Gerrit Davidse (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5341413)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:452072-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Monarda punctata L.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth