MONARDA

Aka - bee balm, bergamot, horsemint, oswego tea.  This genus has roughly 16 species.  Native Americans used bee balm as a seasoning when cooking wild game, in particular birds.  They also used it to brew teas, to treat flatulence, to treat headaches, and when needed as a stimulant. 

Monarda also works wonders as a companion plant for tomatoes!  We have three colors adorning our herb bed--pink, purple, and red.

We call it bee balm around here and we are touting her attributes because she LOVES to attract those busy pollinators, the bees.  But you can call her what you like stunning, beautiful, interesting, versatile...........