Monarda citriodora subsp. austromontana Bees Favourite - seeds

Monarda citriodora 'Bees Favourite' is a beautiful perennial plant with a fresh, lemony scent when crushed and a slightly tousled appearance. Grown for its ornamental and culinary qualities, it is unmatched for structuring the edges of flower beds.

Monarda citriodora, also known as Oswego Tea, Bergamot, Golden Balm, or Lemon Monarda, is a herbaceous perennial native to North America. It has since naturalised in Europe with astonishing ease. It belongs to the mint family, a family whose members often have pockets of essential oils from which essential oils are extracted.

This variety is more compact than the typical species and produces a profusion of lavender-blue flowers arranged in whorls. Each zygomorphic flower head displays tubular and two-lipped corollas: the trilobed lower lip is surmounted by a very delicate upper lip. The protruding stamens give the whole flower cluster a very tousled appearance, supported by large decorative bracts. The flowering period extends from June to September. Both the leaves and the flowers emit a rich lemon fragrance when crushed. The foliage is a vibrant green and velvety on the underside. The margins are very lightly indented. Bees and butterflies love monarda, and 'Bees Favourite' monarda is, of course, their favourite.

It will thrive in sun and shade and prefers ordinary, moist soil that does not retain water and does not dry out in the summer. In an aromatic or natural garden, it is unique in the middle of a flower bed. It will harmonise beautifully with lobelias or yarrows in colourful swathes.

Monarda is grown for its ornamental qualities, as well as its aromatic and medicinal values. The leaves can be used fresh or dried for making herbal tea. Added to meat or fish dishes, they will impart a subtle, lemony taste. The flowers will enhance any salad with their slightly spicy flavour. Monarda is said to have properties that can treat respiratory conditions, aid digestion and stimulate appetite.