Oswego-tea
Monarda didyma
Last reviewed: July 2026
Monarda didyma (Oswego-tea) is a native perennial wildflower blooming red in summer months across eastern North America. This moisture-loving plant attracts bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies to gardens and natural areas.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CT, GA, KY and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds, butterflies
Oswego tea is a showy native perennial that produces brilliant red tubular flowers from summer into early fall. This mint family plant forms spreading clumps and thrives in moist, partially shaded areas where it creates colorful displays.
Growing Oswego-tea
Grow Oswego-tea in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Oswego-tea is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Spreads aggressively and may need regular division
- Can look messy after blooming without deadheading
Wildlife value
The bright red blooms are magnets for hummingbirds and attract numerous bees and butterflies throughout the summer months.
Common questions
- When does Monarda didyma bloom?
- Monarda didyma blooms during the summer months of June, July, and August, producing vibrant red tubular flowers.
- What pollinators visit Oswego-tea?
- Oswego-tea attracts bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies with its nectar-rich tubular flowers. The bright red blooms are particularly attractive to ruby-throated hummingbirds.
- Where is Monarda didyma native?
- Monarda didyma is native to eastern North America, including states from Maine south to Georgia and west to Michigan and Kentucky.
- What growing conditions does Oswego-tea prefer?
- Oswego-tea thrives in moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It performs best with consistent moisture and may struggle in dry conditions.
- Is Oswego-tea HOA-friendly?
- Oswego-tea is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Oswego-tea? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz