Quick Guide: summer, hardy, sun/semi-shade, height: 60cm/24in, width: 38cm/15in

Bees and butterflies are irresistibly attracted to the vivid, shaggy flowers of Monarda didyma, a highly decorative relative of mint which is variously known as bee balm or Oswego tea. Native to North America, it was used by the Oswego Indians to make a soothing drink - the leaves have a minty fragrance. It is named after Nicolas Monardes, author of a sixteenth-century herbal first published in America. Quick-growing and perfect for cutting, Monarda is a good choice for the middle of the border.

GROWING Plant in groups of 4-6 in spring or autumn in moisture-retentive soil. Mulch annually in spring with well-rotted organic matter. A position in sun or partial shade will do. Cut down the stems in autumn.

PROPAGATION Monarda spreads from the roots. Divide established clumps every 3 years. Discard the centre and replant small outer tufts. Named varieties do not come true from seed.

VARIETIES `Cambridge Scarlet', bright red; `Croftway Pink', shell pink; `Snow Maiden', white; 'Prairie Night', indigo purple.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.