Monarda didyma (Scarlet Bee Balm)

Prized for its bright flowers and minty fragrance, Monarda didyma (Scarlet Bee Balm) is a clump-forming perennial boasting 2-lipped scarlet-red flowers, borne in dense, globular terminal heads, 3-4 in. across (7-10 cm). Blooming for about 8 weeks in late spring to mid-fall, they rest upon a whorl of decorative red-tinged bracts and attract scores of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Their vibrant color is set off to perfection by the lance-shaped, deep green leaves, 3-6 in. long (7-15 cm), which are delightfully fragrant and can be enjoyed in salads or simply by passing by. Native to eastern North America, this sturdy perennial wildflower occurs naturally in bottomlands, thickets, moist woods, and along stream banks. Very showy, Scarlet Bee Balm provides long-lasting color for the perennial border, cottage garden, prairie or meadow, herb garden, or along ponds or streams.

• Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall (60-120 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm). Will spread by rhizomes and self-seeding to form colonies.
• Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Appreciates afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Protect from excessive winter wet and do not allow it to dry out in summer. Providing good air circulation to combat powdery mildew is important.
• This showy perennial is a striking addition to informal borders, prairies, and meadows. The boldness of its blooms makes it terrific for massing or as an accent plant. Good cut flowers.
• Both the flowers and leaves are edible. Bee balm flowers add a pop of color and flavor to salads, drinks, and desserts. They’re often brewed into teas or used as a garnish for a fresh, citrusy note. The leaves are used in herbal teas and can be added to salads or cooked dishes to impart a unique minty flavor.
• Monarda flowers attract streams of butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators, but this plant is deer and rabbit resistant.
• Keep an eye out for powdery mildew.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms. Fast-growing, Monarda spreads vigorously and will need to be divided every 3 years.
• Should be cut to the ground after flowering to promote the growth of new healthy shoots and leaves.
• Propagate by seed or division in spring.
• Native to North America.
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• Bee Balm belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, which also includes well-known culinary herbs such as lavender, rosemary, basil, sage, and oregano.