Monarda
fistulosa (Labiatae) - This member of
the mint family is also known as "purple bee-balm". It was
used medicinally by Native Americans, and as a substitute
for imported tea by the settlers. Its cousin is modarda
didyma, also known as Oswego tea. The leaves are very
aromatic, and a tea I made from them was almost too potent.
Mixing them with something else to mellow them might make a
nicer tea. Blooms in summer. (Photographed in WI)
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