DESCRIPTION : Monarda didyma has a square, hairy stem. These stems are also hard, grooved and bear deep green, ovate, sharply toothed (serrated) leaves that are 3-6 inches long. The leaves are paired and have hairs on the lower side. This plant grows 2-3 feet high.

The flowers appear in large whorls at the top of the stem, supported by leafy bracts. The leaflets of the bracts are pale green tinged with red.

Other varieties include :

M. fistulosa, common name Wild Bergamot.

M. punctata, common name Horsemint.

CULTIVATION : Monarda prefers full sun to light shade with rich organic soil. Propagation is easy, roots creep in all directions. This plant is also propagated by slips or cuttings. Flowers appear in July and August, through September. Monarda is susceptible to powdery mildew, so give it space for air circulation. Zones 4-9. Soil pH 6.5.

PARTS OF THE PLANTS USED : The leaves and flowers of Monarda are used.

To harvest, cut the plant down to 1 inch above the ground as soon as the lower leaves begin to yellow. Leaves for tea are cut as needed. For the best flavor, strip the leaves from the stems and lay out to dry for 2 or 3 days in a warm shady place. If you dry them any longer than this the leaves may discolour, producing a tea with less flavor.

PLANT ANALYSIS : Monarda contains thymol, an antiseptic against fungi, bacteria and some parasites.

MEDICINAL USE : Use this plant in an infusion for coughs, sore throats, nausea, flatulence, and menstrual cramps.

MEDICINAL ACTION : Carminative, rubefacient, stimulant. Thymol from M. punctata is considered strongest.

DOSAGE : As an infusion : Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 teaspoonful of the herb and infuse for about 15 minutes. Drink three times a day.

MAGICKAL USE : Use Monarda in spells and rituals for developing psychic powers,protection, or fertility.

HISTORY : The name Monarda is from Nicholas Monardes (1493-1588), a Spanish botanist. Didyma is from the Greek word meaning "paired or twinned." This refers to the two stamens in each flower.

Monarda was discovered by colonists in New York State. The place is now named Otsego after the the Native Americans that lived there. The name Ostego is often reported as Oswego.

When settlers arrived, they learned of a beebalm tea brewed by the Native Americans. It was used as a medicine and also for pleasure. This tea became popular, and during the Revolutionary War, replaced black tea.

In the mid-1700's, an outpost was set on Lake Ontario by John Bartram of Philadelphia. Bartram gathered some Monarda seeds from the outskirts of the post and them to England. It then traveled to Europe.

Oil from the plant was used as soap or perfume.

LORE : None found.

CULINARY : Mix Monarda with Indian black tea and you have a copy of the famous Earl Grey Tea.

Add the fresh flowers of Monarda to salads or use as a garnish. It will add a taste reminiscent of citrus.

Use fresh, whole or chopped leaves for duck, pork, meat sausages, and curries. The flavor of Monarda works well with strawberries, apples, oranges, tangerines, and melons.