Monarda Didyma - Bee Balm |
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| Characteristics:
Has
scented, oval leaves with pointed tips on stems up to 3 feet high. It grows
in large clumps, spreading continually on runners to colonize more ground.
The species has red flowers; selected cultivars and hybrids are white, pink,
or purple. The flowers emerge in shaggy clumps during summer; all attract hummingbirds. Growing Information: Give rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. For faster growth, fertilize in spring. Divide every 3 years to keep tidy. If the old central growth dies back, dig up that portion and replace it with fresh soil so new shoots can fill in. Remove faded flowers to encourage additional bloom. Propagation: Propagate by division or cuttings, or grow the species by seed. Start seedlings indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last spring frost. Cultivars: 'Gardenview Scarlet' is somewhat resistant to powdery mildew. 'Marshall's Delight' is mildew-resistant and rose-pink. 'Violet Queen' is lavender-blue and also mildew-resistant. Possible Problems: The species and many of its cultivars are susceptible to powdery mildew. Use mildew-resistant cultivars, or thin clumps to promote good air circulation. Cut diseased plants back to resprout healthy foliage. Harvesting and Using: Pick leaves and flowers to add fragrance and color to teas, or dry for potpourri. Use fresh flowers in arrangements or as an edible garnish. Related Herbs: Wild monarda (M. fistulosa) is a perennial with white to lavender flowers. It's a sturdy plant that can hold its own in meadows. A rose-scented, purple-flowered hybrid of this is M. x media or M. fistulosa x tetraploid (excellent to use in potpourri). Lemon mint (M. citriodora) is an annual or biennial with white to pink flowers and a lemon scent. It grows up to 2 feet high and is used in tea or potpourri. |
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