Monarda punctata from Brenda in South Carolina

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My neighbor brought me this beautiful wild flower found in Georgetown County SC. . It was growing in sandy soil and full sun. It has a row of pale lavender petals with some tipped in green. Then a row of yellow speckled orchid-like petals. I think it has an opposite leaf arrangement. I would like to know the name. Thank you, Brenda

Hi Brenda,

this is a great native wild mint called the spotted beebalm, or horsemint, Monarda punctata. The leaves are often used to make a sweet tea. The pinkish structures are lavender bracts and the flowers are yellow.  The foliage has a strong sharp mint aroma. It is usually in sandy soils.

Sincerely,

Dr. Steven Hill, Botanist, SCNPS

 

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