Also know
as Oswego Tea. From the mint family
The
Oswego Indians used it for colds and bronchial complaints.
They also made tea from it called Oswego tea that was drunk
in many American households, replacing Indian tea, following
the Boston TeaParty of 1773. There are many varieties. The
blooms come in red, purple, or light pink depending on variety.
Discription
Herbal
uses
It is excellent herb tea to relieve nausea, flatulence,
menstrual pain, and vomiting.
Category
Perennial
Ht and Spread
2" - 24"; 30" - 36"
Color
and Bloom Period
Pink; Summer
Light
and soil
Full sun to part shade; moist well drained soil
Blooms
May to August if deadheaded.
Insider's Secret
Remember to dig up and divide about every three years. Has
running roots so watch out it
does tend to takeover. Bee Balm is also
called Bergamot. It does well in a very large pot or tub as
long as the soil can be kept moist and it is given afternoon
shade. The unusual flowers of this member of the mint family
attract Hummingbirds and butterflies. Sow seeds in
the spring. In the fall cut back to the ground. Thought Bee
Balm dies back in the winter it is good to protect with a
mulch, especially if you live in a real cold climate.
