Monarda didyma, bee balm or bergamot
is a clump-forming rhizomatous perennial native to North America.
They will grow in full sun or dappled shade and the long-lasting flowers
are popular with bees hence their common name.
They are generally tolerant of
conditions, and should do well on heavy clay soils, though they don't like winter wet. Slugs can be a problem in
spring and powdery mildew in hot and dry summers.
They will produce large amounts of
flowers that reach about 36 inches in height, plants will spread by
about half this amount.
Monarda is edible with a sweet/spicy
flavor and aroma. Whole leaves and flowers can be used as a salad
garnish, or they can chopped and added to a fruit salad.
Leaves can also be dried and used in
potpourri or tea, Earl Grey tea is flowered with oil of Bergamot. Gather
8-10 stems with a rubber band at the cut end and hang upside down until
crisp to the touch. Crush and store in airtight containers out of direct
sunlight. To make a cup of tea, place 1 tablespoon of fresh or dried
Monarda in a tea strainer or teaspoon and add 1 cup of boiling water.
Steep for 10 minutes and enjoy!
