Monarda fistulosa
Family: Lamiaceae
Perennial. Native to the central, eastern and southern
United States. Makes tight clusters of lavender, long-tubed flowers which
attract hummingbirds and children to nibble. Fantastic fresh-cut
flower with excellent aroma. The dried leaves and flowers make a
good tea, commonly known as Oswego Tea. Certainly one of the most
revered of Native American medicinals, the many varieties of Bergamot were
recognized as separate medicinal entities for treating a great variety
of afflictions. The Muskogees used it, and in fact still do, to lighten
the spirits of those who partake of it. Cultivation:
Easy. Germ in 8-14 days. Start in greenhouse in early spring,
transplant to garden after second set of leaves appears. Likes partial
shade and moist (even sodden) soil.
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