Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot)

wild bergamot (1 quart)


Wild bergamot is a clump-forming, mint family member that grows typically to 2-4' tall. Lavender, two-lipped, tubular flowers appear late summer. Best grown in dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates some some drought. Prone to powdery mildew so plants need good air circulation. Deadhead flowers to prolong summer bloom. Tends to self-seed and spreads by rhizomes, so lift and divide every three years to contain it, improve circulation, and improve vigor. Great pollinator plant.

Wild bergamot is widespread and abundant in most of the U.S. east of the Rockies. Grows in dry, open woods, fields, wet meadows, and ditches in a wide range of soils. Attracts birds, butterflies, hummingbirds. Special value to native bees and bumblebees. A honey plant favored by honeybees. Larval host to the hermit sphinx, orange mint moth, and raspberry pyrausta.

 

Photo by Kathy Thornton

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