Monarda didyma

Perennial ~ Height 40cm-1.2m ~ Hardy

A colourful herb with strongly scented leaves and large deep scarlet flowers which bloom over a long period in summer.  

The leaves can be added to fruit drinks or made into a tea to give an Earl Grey flavour. Fresh flowers can be added to salads.  In addition, bergamot's dried flowers are invaluable in pot pourri for their deep red colour and strong citrus scent.  

Spectacular when planted en masse and very attractive to bees.

Prefers humus rich soil and partial shade but tolerates sun if kept moist.