Monarda fistulosa Native to the prairies of North America, the aromatic leaves of bee balm have long been used by Native Americans as a spicy garnish or as a herbal tea to ward off winter colds. As the name suggests, bee balm is very popular with bees and other pollinating insects. It is a member of the mint family and contains many of the same essential oils (and flavours) as oregano and thyme, which gives it a characteristic sharp and spicy bite. Also known as ‘wild bergamot’ – not to be confused with the citrus fruit ‘bergamot’ that is used to make bergamot essential oil and flavour earl grey tea – Monarda fistulosa has evolved into many different varieties. These seeds are a lavender-coloured variety that does very well in the UK climate (or at least it does in the Somerset climate where the seeds are grown). It is easy to grow and a valuable herb to add to a herbal tea or use in the kitchen. A wonderful gift for pollinator gardeners, herbalists, and anyone who loves plants that are as good for the bees as they are for us. Grown and harvested in the UK Certified Organic Minimum 100 seeds