This unique drought-tolerant beauty features stacked whorls of cream-colored, purple-spotted flowers surrounded by showy pink to lavender bracts. Unlike other bee balms, this species thrives in sandy, well-drained soils and full sun, making it perfect for challenging garden spots.

Native range: Eastern United States from Vermont to Florida, west to Minnesota and New Mexico

Size: 1-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide

Growing conditions: Full sun to part shade in dry to medium, well-drained sandy soils. Drought tolerant.

Bloom period: July through September

Wildlife value: Attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and beneficial wasps. Larval host for Gray Marvel and Raspberry Pyrausta moths.

Garden benefits: Deer and rabbit resistant due to aromatic oregano-scented foliage. Short-lived perennial that readily self-seeds in suitable conditions.