Peter's Purple Bee Balm May 23, 2015

I staked these plants very early on, and it really helped keep them upright through all the heavy rains we had in April and May.  I planted this two summers ago.  This is the second year of blooming, this year was much better than last year.  I have always loved bee balm.  In addition to being a very pretty flower it is also a useful herb with antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties.  It is also one of the key ingredients in Earl Grey tea.  The flowers are edible.  The leaves are very aromatic when crushed.  There are many varieties sold commercially.  I love the red flowered varieties too.