North Carolina Certified Plant Professional Practice Exam

Monarda didyma is widely recognized by its common name, Beebalm. This plant is part of the mint family and is often favored for its ability to attract pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, which is reflected in its common name. Beebalm typically produces vibrant red, pink, or purple flowers and is commonly used in gardens for both its ornamental value and its historical medicinal properties.

The other options refer to different plants with distinct characteristics. Fountain Grass is a type of ornamental grass known for its feathery flower spikes and is not related to Monarda didyma. Panicum virgatum, commonly known as Switchgrass, is also a grass species that serves a different ecological purpose. Mondo Grass refers to Ophiopogon japonicus, which is a ground cover plant rather than a flowering herbaceous plant like Beebalm. Therefore, Monarda didyma’s association with the name Beebalm highlights its unique identity and role in horticulture and ecology.