MONARDA: Very attractive to butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. When crushed, the foliage will release a spicy fragrance and the leaves can be used to make a delightful herbal tea. Monarda is a North American genus of several species, all of which share tartly fragrant foliage and the square stems that typify the members of the Mint family. The late-summer flower heads are hemispheres of tubular blooms in brilliant colors. Plants thrive in full sun or partial shade and evenly moist soil. Under these conditions, they are vigorous to the point of invasiveness, perhaps past it. Hummingbirds are drawn to the flowers, which may suggest a location near a porch or a window. Balmy Purple features rich purple/red flowers bloom early on dwarf, compact plants that show good mildew resistance. Performs best, if spent blooms are trimmed away after first flush. Prefers a constantly moist place in the garden.
