Lemon Mint
Monarda citriodora
Perennial
Bloom
July — September
Color
Purple / Pink
Height
12—24 inches
Spread
12—18 inches
Sun
Full sun to partial shade (4—6 hours)
Water
Low to moderate — drought tolerant
A Southwest native mint, Lemon Mint offers exceptional value in Colorado xeriscape gardens. The distinctive tiered purple-pink flower whorls bloom from midsummer through fall, attracting native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The foliage carries a subtle lemon fragrance when brushed, adding a sensory dimension to the garden. It's marginally hardy in Denver (zone 5a) but consistently returns given well-draining soil and winter drainage.
Growing conditions
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy/loamy
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade (4—6 hours)
- Water: Low to moderate — drought tolerant
- Drought tolerance: High
- Hardiness: Colorado native / adapted · USDA Zones 4–7
Wildlife & ecology
- Pollinator value: High — bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
- Landscape use: Pollinator gardens, edging, fragrant herb gardens, xeriscape borders.
Want Lemon Mint in your yard?
Xeris designs and installs native plant xeriscapes across Denver and the Front Range. We'll walk your site, assess soil and sun, and build a plan that thrives.
Request a free consultation