Monarda didyma (Scarlet Beebalm)

The classic hummingbird magnet of the native perennial world, scarlet beebalm's brilliant red blooms are a proven wetland-adjacent perennial confirmed present in New Jersey, carrying real historical significance as the original source of Oswego Tea.

Species Overview

Monarda didyma, the scarlet beebalm or Oswego tea, is a clump-forming perennial in the mint family native to eastern North America. It grows 2 to 4 feet tall, producing two-lipped, scarlet-red flowers in dense, globular terminal heads from late spring through mid fall. The common name "Oswego Tea" refers to the historical use of its leaves for tea by the Oswego people of New York and by early colonists.

Application

• Pollinator and hummingbird garden plantings - signature red bloom color
• Streamside, bottomland, and moist thicket restoration
• Cottage gardens, native plant gardens, and pond/stream margins
• Historical and interpretive plantings referencing Oswego Tea

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Moist, rich, acidic soils; does not tolerate drying out
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Red; June-August
• Wetland Indicator Status: FAC (Facultative)
• Native Range: Eastern North America
• Hydrology: Mesic-Moist
• Root Depth: Shallow (Under 12 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Flood Tolerance: Moderate - Commonly found along streambanks and in moist soil; tolerates periodically wet conditions.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Spreading - rhizomatous
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees, supports butterflies, supports hummingbirds

Planting Guidance

• Susceptible to powdery mildew; avoid overhead watering to reduce disease pressure.