Monarda citriodora
HERB-MINT-LEMON (Bee Balm) is part of the mint family with refreshing lemon flavoured leaves, with the tang of lemon & the menthol of mint. It has been around for hundreds of years & is widely known for its many uses. Commonly used as a medicinal tea & as an effective nerve tonic, it calms the nerves & soothes anxiety and tension. Dried it emits a relaxing scent & is often used in aromatherapy. Can tolerate dry soil, & requires little water or direct sunlight. Several stems grow from the base & are lined with pairs of lance-shaped leaves. It grows quickly during spring, reaching up to almost 1 metre high & blooms with white, purple & pink flowers. The plant dies with the first frost, & although it is an annual, its seed can germinate & grow the following year.
Thin out when large enough to handle, so that they are finally 30cm apart. Provide additional water if necessary until the plants reach 30cm.