Dotted Mint (Monarda punctata) is beautiful, undemanding and edible. Native to the Eastern portion of Canada and the United States, the plant's leaves and flowers can be used to make an aromatic tea or as a savoury herb. Dotted mint is drought tolerant and although it prefers sand and loam, it will tolerate clay. Upon closer inspection, you'll notice that the plant has a row of flowers, and below what appear to be flower petals are actually colourful leaves, which may be purple, pink, green, white or yellow. Dotted mint is a favourite food source of the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly.
Growing Instructions
Cold, moist stratification required. Mix seeds with moist substrate (vermiculite, perlite or moss) and place in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 6-8 weeks. Sow seed at 1/8 inch depth. Do not let seedling dry out while it is establishing.
OR
Sow directly outdoors in late fall to overwinter.