Monarda

Monarda, often referred to as bee balm or prairie bergamot, originally comes from the plains and forest edges of North America. These distinctively fragrant plants are popular for both their aromatic leaves and unusual flowers. In the garden, they are a great attraction for bees, bumblebees, and other pollinators. They find their place in ornamental beds as well as in the kitchen. The leaves smell like lemons, mint, or oregano and are suitable for preparing refreshing teas. Moreover, their long and sturdy stems make monarda an excellent cut flower that stays fresh in a vase for a long time. We grow some of them as perennials, while others thrive here more as annuals that are capable of self-seeding. Most prefer a sunny location. To prevent the plants from suffering from powdery mildew—a common fungal disease of the leaves that manifests as a white coating—it is important to give them enough space in the bed for good air circulation.