Monarda didyma 'Snow
White'
(Bee Balm, Bergamot, Firecracker Plant, Horsemint, Oswego Tea)
Origin: Hybrid
Family: Lamiaceae
Light: Full sun
Height: 2-4'
Spacing: 2-4'
Blooms: White, Summer
Foliage: Aromatic, green, mixture of basil and mint scent
Soil: Well-drained, rich, moist, drought tolerant
Water: Moderate, more in Summer
Uses: Butterfly garden, hummingbird garden, cut flowers, near pond|
Propagation: Seeds
Comments: Monarda didyma 'Snow
White' or Bee Balm or Bergamot or Firecracker Plant or Horsemint or Oswego Tea is a hybrid perennial herbal plant with a fast growth habit. It is introduced in 1955. In Summer, Firecracker Plant produces repeated lovely white pom pom-like blossoms followed later by seeds. Butterflies and hummingbirds are magnetized by the nectar-rich blossoms while the florists are delighted with the cut flowers. Monarda didyma 'Snow White' is easily propagated from seeds and thrives best in well-drained, moist, rich soil in a sunny location. Snow White Bee Balm tolerates drought and is resistant to deers. Mass plant Bergamot in the wet garden or around pond for a splendid display. Grow them in the back of lower perennials for a remarkable view. The white round blossoms of Oswega Tea really stands out among the green foliage. Horsemint is a self-seeder and it spreads from its roots. Divide in Spring or Fall every few years to prevent overcrowding. The leaves of Monarda makes a refreshing tea. Snow White Bee Balm is a terrific show stopper. It attracts a lot of attention from foot traffic.
Interestingly, Monarda is named after Nicholas Monardes, an avid 16th Century Spanish botanist and doctor.
USDA Zones: 3-9
JennysGarden.com...Plant images and gardening
descriptions of perennial herbal plant, Monarda didyma 'Snow
White' (Bee Balm, Bergamot, Firecracker Plant, Horsemint, Oswego Tea) growing in Jenny's Garden
