Monarda didyma is another bergamot, member of the mint family with distinctive flowerheads displaying a dense, rounded, terminal, head-like cluster of bright red, pink, purple or white tubular flowers atop a square stem. Also called beebalm, bee balm, it is cultivated both for its ornamental qualities and its aromatic and medicinal virtues. The leaves can be used fresh or dried into herbal tea. Added to meat or fish dishes, they will give them a subtle taste. The plant flowers from early summer to early autumn, and will continue blooming if deadheaded periodically. This plant is loved by pollinators and is also used by herbalists for its beneficial properties. Please always consult a healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist before using this plant or it essential oil medicinally.
Scientific Name: Monarda dydima
Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
Germination time in days: 14-21 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: wet, rich soil, well-drained
Sowing and cultivation: Sow seeds indoors from March to May and keep soil temperature between 13-15C, They will need light to germinate. When large enough to handle, and after progressive exposure to outdoors temperatures, transplant them outside. Space plants by 45 cm in a well drained soil in a sunny spot. Mulch around the roots annually, and divide congested clumps in spring.
