Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa are two species of plants that go to the genus Monarda in the heap family . While they share some similarities , there are several decided differences between them .

1 . prime Color : One of the most detectable remainder between Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa is the color of their flowers . Monarda didyma , also known as bee balm or reddish bee balm , has vivacious scarlet - scarlet flowers . These heyday are surrounded by red - tinged bract , which are leaf - like structures that protect the flowers . On the other helping hand , Monarda fistulosa , ordinarily called unfounded Citrus bergamia , features light lavender to pinkish - blank blossom . These flower are often environ by bracts that are touch with pinko .

2 . Growth Habit : Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa also disagree in their growth habits . Monarda didyma is a glob - organise perennial that can grow up to 3 - 4 feet tall . It has a spreading nature and can speedily fill in a garden space . Monarda fistulosa , on the other script , is a more upright and compact plant , typically growing to a pinnacle of 2 - 4 feet . Its increase habit is more restrained compare to Monarda didyma .

3 . Hardiness : Another important difference between these two Monarda mintage is their lustiness . Monarda didyma is native to easterly North America and is more commonly found in region with a milder climate . It is not as tolerant of inhuman temperature and may ask protection or mulch in colder realm . Monarda fistulosa , on the other mitt , is native to a extensive kitchen range of North America , include more northerly regions . It is generally more cold - sturdy and can withstand colder temperatures without much bother .

4 . fragrance and Medicinal Uses : Both Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa have redolent leaf and flowers , but they take issue somewhat in their scent . Monarda didyma has a potent , spicy fragrance , while Monarda fistulosa has a milder , more citrusy aroma . Both species have a recollective chronicle of medicinal use by aboriginal American tribe . Monarda didyma has been traditionally used for treating coldness , fevers , and digestive issues , while Monarda fistulosa has been used for its antiseptic and anti - rabble-rousing property .

5 . Cultivars and Hybrids : Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa have been extensively hybridise and cultivated , ensue in a encompassing range of cultivar and hybrids with various flower colors . cultivar of Monarda didyma can be find in rich tad of red , violet , purple , pink , and white , providing a sensational regalia of options for gardener . Monarda fistulosa cultivars are less common , but they can also exhibit edition in flower colour , include shades of pinkish and lavender .

In my personal experience , I have grown both Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa in my garden . The vivacious red blossom of Monarda didyma bestow a bold splash of colouring material , attracting hummingbird and butterflies . The aromatic leaves and efflorescence were a delight to the locoweed . Monarda fistulosa , on the other handwriting , had a more subtle beauty with its delicate lavender flower . It blended well with other native plants in my garden and provide a calming outcome . Both species were relatively easy to grow , require well - drained ground and regular watering .

Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa are two distinguishable coinage of plants with difference in blossom color , growth habit , hardiness , smell , and medicinal uses . However , both species declare oneself unique mantrap and are valuable accession to any garden or landscape .

Caroline Bates