Monarda didyma 'Raspberry Wine'
(Bee Balm, Bergamot, Firecracker Plant, Horsemint, Oswego Tea)
Origin: Hybridizer, Probst (1992)
Family: Lamiaceae
Light: Full sun
Height: 3-4'
Spacing: 2-3'
Blooms: Red, Summer
Foliage: Aromatic, green, mixture of basil and mint scent
Soil: Well-drained, rich, mildly acidic, neutral, mildly alkaline, moist, drought tolerant
Water: Moderate, more in Summer
Uses: Herbal tea, butterfly garden, hummingbird garden, cut flowers, near pond|
Propagation: Seeds
Comments: Monarda didyma 'Raspberry Wine' 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 of hybrid origin, by hybridizer Probst in 1992. In Summer, Firecracker Plant 'Raspberry Wine' produces repeated lovely red 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 'Raspberry Wine' is easily propagated from rootball divisions or herbaceous stem cuttings. It thrives best in well-drained, moist, rich soil in a sunny location. Bee Balm 'Raspberry Wine' tolerates drought and is resistant to deers. Mass plant Bergamot 'Raspberry Wine' in the wet garden or around pond for a splendid display. Grow them in the back of lower perennials for a remarkable view. The bright red blossoms of Oswega Tea 'Raspberry Wine' really stands out among the green foliage. Horsemint 'Raspberry Wine' is a self-seeder and the seeds do not come true to parent. Its spreads from its roots. Divide in Spring or Fall every few years to prevent overcrowding. The leaves of Monarda makes a refreshing tea. Bee Balm 'Raspberry Wine' 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: 4-9
JennysGarden.com...Plant images and gardening descriptions of perennial herbal plant, Monarda didyma 'Raspberry Wine' (Bee Balm, Bergamot, Firecracker Plant, Horsemint, Oswego Tea) growing in Jenny's Garden
