A wildflower native throughout North America. It has long-standing medicinal uses and is a popular nectar source for pollinators, including bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. A type of bee balm with pinkish lavender flowers and distinctively scented foliage, oregano, and thyme with a hint of fruitiness. Wild Bergamot is used medicinally for colds, congestion, sore throats, indigestion, and nausea, infections, flavoring, and food preservation. Also makes an excellent cut flower. Grow in sun/part shade in well-drained soil. 

100 seeds

 

PLANTING

Monarda fistulosa

Perennial, zones 4-10

Germination:  15-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-70ºF

Seed Planting Depth:  Sow on the surface and lightly cover

Starting Indoors:  Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 60-70ºF soil temperatures. Transplant after the last frost, 12-24" apart or transplant seedlings close together. We like to make a 12-18” circle of closely planted seedlings, for a full-looking plant in the first few seasons.

Sowing Outdoors: Mid-spring, starting a few weeks before the last frost date, into early summer. 

Growth Habit: Upright, branching

Height and Width: 36-48” x 24-36”

Spacing:  12-24” apart   

Light Needs: Full sun, part shade 

Soil Needs: Fertile, well-drained 

Harvest: Flowers and leaves when flowers are in peak bloom. Harvest the top part of the plant, cutting off at a few nodes under the flowers. This allows new growth and more flowers. Use fresh or dry to preserve 

Uses: Edible flowers, culinary and medicinal, flowers attract pollinators and beneficials, cut flowers

Care: Divide every few years. Do not overwater and plant in areas with good air circulation, which helps with powdery mildew