The inflorescence of
monarda fistulosa is quite distinctive; a spherical cluster of between 20 and 50 tubular, pink/purple flowers, each around 1.15 inches in length, opening about half way along to a straight upper lip, protruding stamens and a three-lobed lower lip, curved downwards. The corolla has a covering of very fine, short hairs. Flowers are produced at the top of the stout, unbranched stems (which are square in cross-section), above a few leaf-like bracts. The plant exudes a minty odor, can form large clumps, and is abundant across many areas of the west. It has been used for a variety of purposes, including as a spice, herb, medicine, perfume and insect repellant.