Monarda fistulosa
Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm
General
A hardy, herbaceous plant with very showy flowers. This species is often found growing in open fields, at the edge of forest lines, and in wet meadows. A tea can be brewed from the leaves, and its flowers are also edible. Historically, it has been used to aid in the treatment of respiratory ailments. Wild bergamot is a highly-valued plant for a wide variety of bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds.
Plant Description
An aromatic plant with dramatic lavender to pink flowers. The flowers bloom singly atop each stalk and have the appearance of tubular pompoms. As a member of the mint family, wild bergamot has square stems.
Height (ft)
3-5'
Soil moisture
Dry to Moist
Soil types
Thrives in a wide array of soils- from rich to poor and sandy, acidic to lime heavy
Wetland indicator
UPL
Shade tolerance
Intermediate, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Bloom color
Purple
Bloom period
Late Spring to Late Summer
Drought tolerance
Moderate
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Widespread throughout the United States and Canada, but not found in Alaska, California, Hawaii, or Florida.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, this species was used by Native Americans as a tea and the oil extract to remedy many illnesses. The leaves of this plant smell minty and the leaf tea could be used to treat colds, stomachaches, insomnia and more. The boiled leaves or the extract could be applied to skin acne as well as inhalation of the boiling leaves could treat respiratory problems.