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BEE BALM


BEE BALM (Monarda didyma)

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

Plants grow well in sun or shade, but the mats of shallow roots are veryinvasive, so use it where you can contain its growth easily. Cut plantsback 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 fruitsalads. The flowers are attractive in fresh arrangements.