Monardas

matthew.ziemski · January 2018

Hi all,

I would like to get a Monarda because they attract bees and butterflies, but I also read the leaves and flowers and edible.

Is that true for them all or only a certain variety?

Thanks

pbff · January 2018

Hi Matthew,

All Monarda species are edible, as far as I know, although some taste stronger than others, making some better for culinary use and others more suited to medicinal uses.

Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bergamot) is a half-hardy annual, easily grown from seed, with a pleasant flavour suitable for using in cooking or to make tea.

Monarda menthifolia (Mint-leaved Bergamot) is a hardy perennial, with a stronger oregano flavour, also suitable for kitchen use.

Monarda didyma (Scarlet Bergamot), a hardy perennial, has the highest concentration of essential oil and is used as a medicinal herb e.g. for making teas to help with colds, sore throats, mouth infections, etc.

Monarda punctata (Spotted Beebalm), a hardy perennial, also has a stronger flavour and is better as a medicinal herb too.

All of these species are available to buy as seed from Chiltern Seeds, which is a company that I can highly recommend, or alternatively you should be able to find plants at your local nursery/garden centre or online.

I hope this helps.

pbff

Monardas

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