lavender flowers of wild bergamot plants

Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa). Photo: Elmer Verhasselt, Bugwood.org

Updated: July 17, 2023

About wild bergamot

Monarda fistulosa
Perennial Forb
Mint Family

Maryland Distribution: Poor dry soils of meadows and woodland edges throughout the state.

Height: up to 4 ft
Bloom Season: July-Aug
Sun: Light shade to full sun
Soil: Well-drained, soils low in organic matter, tolerates clay and rocky soils

Garden Use & Maintenance: Plant this in poor, dry soil or you will be punished with stems that cannot support their own growth. This is a clump forming mint that will not run over your garden. If you don’t want seedlings, only buy one plant, and as the years go by, divide it to acquire additional plants. The seed heads will inspire you to leave it standing through winter.

Wildlife: This plant attracts diverse pollinators ranging from swallowtail butterflies to hummingbird moths to bumble bees. Deer and rabbit proof.

wild bergamot flowers monarda fistulosa

 

Additional resource

An Ode to Beebalms, Our Beautiful Biodiversity Magnets | Maryland Grows Blog

Publications for Gardeners | Maryland Native Plant Society

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