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Herbs&Spice

BEE BALM

BEE BALM (Monarda didyma)

Bee balm, also called Oswego tea and bergamot, is a native American plant but is named after Monardes, a 16th century Spanish botanist. A leafy, bushy perennial, its branching stems grow to about 3 feet high; clusters of scarlet flowers which are attractive to hummingbirds rise from colored bracts at the ends of the stems during summer and early fall. There are several named garden varieties: 'Cambridge Scarlet,' a fiery red; 'Croftway Pink,' a lavender pink; and 'Granite Pink,' a lovely clear pink. The flowers and foliage have a strong minty aroma.

Plants grow well in sun or shade, but the mats of shallow roots are very invasive, so use it where you can contain its growth easily. Cut plants back periodically to keep them compact, and divide them every 3 or 4 years.

Use bee balm leaves for potpourris and tea, and to flavor jellies and fruit salads. The flowers are attractive in fresh arrangements.