The red Monarda didyma is the most prolific grower in my Zone 5 garden. It isn't prolific to the point of being invasive, but if left alone it will gladly fill a large area over a few years.
Super easy to rip out though because of its very shallow root system.
Transplants like a dream, yank out a hunk and barely shove it in some soil and it will grow.
Prefers full sun (Canada) but will grow nicely, although not as prolifically or as tall, in partial shade.
Not fussy about soil. My gardens are sandy.
Doesn't need any extra watering up here either although we do get rained on at least once a week.
Leaves will get mildew during years of high rainfalls or if the nights are too damp and cool. This can be alleviated by thinning the patch to allow airflow between the stems.

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Monarda is native to eastern North America. It's endangered in some areas.

It is of the mint family, evidenced by its square stems and the strong scent of its leaves. The Native Americans at one time made tea from the dried leaves of Monarda didyma and shared it with the settlers, who went on to use it as a substitute when imported tea became scarce after the Boston Tea Party.

Some groups thought the tea effective in treating colds and sore throats while others steamed the plant and inhaled the fumes to clear sinuses.

The plant is not recommended for its medicinal use today, but the tea from the leaves is still popular in some areas.

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According to NPIN, Monarda didyma has special value to native and bumble bees, and is attractive to hummingbirds.

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