Lemon Mint

Scientific Name: Monarda citriodora

USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 10

Approximate number of seeds per kilogram (pound) : 1,760,000 (800,000)

Sun: full sun to partial shade

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination and maintain consistently moist soil after germination

Soil: cover with 1/16 inch of soil, use well-drained soil, preferably alkaline soil

Temperature: 15 to 21 degrees Celsius (60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 18 to 24 inches apart, or 3 pounds per acre for a meadow

Germination Time: one to four weeks depending on soil conditions

Lemon Mint is an annual native to the southern United States.  It produces dark purple blooms from May to August.  Lemon Mint tolerates drier conditions well and the blooms are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.  It gets its name from the lemony scent released when the leaves are crushed.