SCARLET BEE BALM, Oswego Tea
Botanical Name: Monarda didyma
Plant Family: Mint (Lamiacea) Description: A 2-4 ft. perennial with head-like clusters of tubular red to scarlet flowers atop square stems with large oval leaves. The leaves give off the scent of mint when bruised. Often found as the cultivar 'Jacob Cline'. The alternate common name Oswego Tea refers to the use of the leaves for a tea by the Oswegos of New York. Growing Conditions: From full sun to part shade. Prefers rich, moist acidic soils. Bloom Time: July - August Bloom Color: Bright red or scarle. Benefit to pollinators/wildlife: Highly attractive to native bees, bumble bees, and honey bees. Especially attractive to hummingbirds. Native Status: Native to PA Location in habitat: Pollinator Demonstration Garden |