Bee Balm

Bee Balm, or Monarda as it is called, is an indigenous medicinal plant that the Native Americans were using long before the colonist arrived. Fortunately our original host were willing to share the value of this unique flower with the settlers in upstate New York and thus became known as Oswego Tea in regards to the location of this gift of knowledge. Ever the historian I was so excited when my wife added this lovely edition to our gardens since we live a short ride from Oswego N.Y.

The petals and leaves can be used from this wonderful flower for a number of purposes. Typically the dried leaves are used for tea which in turn can help with everything from colds and congestion to nausea and even muscle spasms. Its petals can be used in salads as well as fruit dishes and though Bee Balm has an interesting aroma as part of the mint family it is an essence all its own.

This favorite of the early Shakers is an important plant for the pollinators of any organic garden. My family has spent countless hours watching the bees, hummingbirds and butterflies swarm the stretching red limbs of the Monarda flowers.

Every two to three years it is recommended that one divides this full sun loving plant. When transplanting just remember that it does well in slightly acidic soil.

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All photographs by Tobias Whitaker unless noted.