(Monarda fistulosa) Wild Bergamot is an heirloom native wildflower known for its attractive lavender to pink blooms and its ability to draw pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This perennial herb has a minty aroma, different from the Bergamot used in Earl Grey tea, and is a reliable bloomer that also produces reddish honey, making it a valuable addition to any garden focused on supporting pollinators.
As an heirloom herb, Wild Bergamot has been historically used in herbal teas and potpourri. The essential oils in its leaves offer a unique flavor that enhances both food and beverages, making it a versatile herb in culinary and medicinal applications. This plant's combination of stunning blossoms and practical uses earned it the 2013 Notable Native Herb award from the Herb Society of America.
The genus name Monarda honors Nicolás Bautista Monardes, a 16th-century Spanish botanist who studied medicinal plants from North America. The species name "fistulosa," meaning "tubular," refers to the shape of the flower's spikes.
Adding Wild Bergamot to your garden offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, making it a great choice for anyone interested in heirloom plants and ecological gardening.
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* DIRECTIONS *
Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot)
Common Names:
Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm, Horsemint, Oswego Tea
Latin Name:
Monarda fistulosa
Type:
Herbaceous Perennial
Family:
Lamiaceae
Native Range:
North America, specifically widespread in U.S. prairies, dry rocky woods, and glade margins.
USDA Zones:
3 to 9
Height:
2 to 4 feet (60-120 cm)
Spread:
2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm)
Bloom Time:
July to September
Bloom Description:
Lavender to pink flowers, borne in dense, globular, solitary, terminal heads atop square stems. Each flower head is subtended by a whorl of showy, pinkish leafy bracts.
Sunlight:
Full sun to part shade
Moisture:
Prefers dry to medium moisture levels; drought-tolerant once established
Soil:
Adaptable to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but prefers well-drained soil. Tolerates somewhat poor soils and can handle clay and rocky conditions.
Maintenance:
Medium. Requires regular watering during the establishment phase, but becomes drought-tolerant once mature. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent powdery mildew. Deadhead flowers to encourage prolonged blooming and reduce self-seeding.
Suggested Use:
Ideal for herb gardens, naturalized areas, rain gardens, and perennial borders. It’s also valuable in pollinator gardens due to its appeal to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Flower:
Showy, fragrant, and suitable for cutting and drying.
Leaf:
Aromatic, can be used in teas with a flavor reminiscent of oregano, thyme, and mint.
Attracts:
Hummingbirds, butterflies, especially the wood nymph butterfly, and bees.
Tolerate:
Deer, drought, clay soil, dry soil, shallow-rocky soil.
~ Planting Instructions ~
Sowing Instructions:
- Timing: Direct sow seeds in early spring, pressing lightly into the soil surface. Alternatively, start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Depth: Surface sow, do not cover seeds as they need light for germination.
- Special Requirements: A cold stratification period of 30-60 days can improve germination rates.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist during germination, which typically occurs within 10-20 days at temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C).
Light and Temperature:
Prefers full sun to part shade; optimal germination temperature range is 65-70°F (18-21°C).
Germination:
Occurs in 10-20 days under optimal conditions.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing:
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date when the soil has warmed sufficiently.
Location:
Choose a well-drained location with full sun to part shade.
Spacing:
Space plants 18-24 inches apart to ensure good air circulation and prevent mildew.
Transplanting:
Gently transplant seedlings to avoid root disturbance; water well after planting.
~ Growing ~
Watering:
Water young plants regularly until established. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
Fertilizing:
Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in spring to support growth and blooming.
Pest and Disease Management:
Monitor for powdery mildew and rust. Ensure adequate spacing and good air circulation. Aphids may infest plants; treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
Maintenance:
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if not desired. Every 2-3 years, divide plants to maintain vigor.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
Harvest leaves and flowers during peak blooming for best flavor and fragrance.
How to Harvest:
Cut stems just above a set of leaves using sharp scissors or pruning shears. Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline if using as cut flowers.
Drying and Storing:
Hang stems upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area away from direct sunlight. Store dried herbs in airtight containers.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow flower heads to dry on the plant. Once dry, remove them and spread out to further dry. Gently thresh to separate seeds. Alternatively, shake seed heads daily into a container as they ripen. Store seeds in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
An excellent choice for attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Origin:
Native to North American prairies, meadows, and open woodlands.
Nomenclature:
Named after Spanish physician and botanist Nicolás Monardes, who studied New World medicinal plants. The species epithet "fistulosa" refers to the plant's hollow stems.
History:
Used by Native American tribes.
Climate Adaptability:
Well-suited to a range of climates, particularly temperate regions. It is hardy and adaptable, tolerating both dry and moist conditions.
