Sun Exposure: Sun, Part Sun
Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry, Dry
Soil Type: Sand, Loam, Clay
Height: 3 - 4 feet
Spread: 2 - 3 feet
Blooms: July, August, September
Root: Rhizomatous
Habitat: Prairies, Openings in sandy woodlands, Oak savannas, Woodlands Edges
Landscape uses: Pollinator gardens, Boulevard plantings, Meadow plantings
Complimentary Plants: Yellow Coneflower, Big Bluestem, Common Milkweed
Wildlife Value: The nectar of the flowers attracts long-tongued bees, bee flies, butterflies, skippers, and hummingbird moths. Host Plant: Hermit Sphink Moth, Snout Moth
Seed Origin: Wasaga Beach, Ontario
Germination Code: A
Monarda fistulosa - Wild Bergamot
Wild Bergamot is a versatile plant and is a familiar component of prairie and savanna communities on all but the wettest of soils. The lovely flowers offers many nectar rewards for hungry bees. Its other common name is Bee Balm because it is one of the best forage plants for Bumblebees. Its flowers open continuously throughout the day, providing many nectar rewards as older flowers are used and replaced by newly opened ones.
The foliage is aromatic and can be used in teas. Since the foliage can be susceptable to powdery mildew, it is best planted where there is sufficient air circulation and full sun to eliminate moisture on the leaves.