- Plant Characteristics
Monarda fistulosa is well known for its distinctive lavender flowers and aromatic foliage, and is a beacon for pollinators. Its tall, clumping nature helps to add texture and color to the garden. A must-have plant for eco-conscious gardeners as it supports local wildlife while beautifying spaces. - Growing & Care
Thrives in full sun to partial shade, and prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Regular watering will help establish roots until the mature plants become drought tolerant.Remove spent blooms to promote further flowering and to prevent excessive self-seeding. - Tips for New Gardeners
Wild Bergamot / Bee Balm can be an excellent choice for novice gardeners as it requires little maintenance and is resilient. Start healthy plants in spring or fall, and ensure good air circulation (to prevent powdery mildew). While generally robust, be mindful of overcrowding. Be sure to monitor growth, as it can quickly spread in the right conditions.
Monarda fistulosa, commonly known as Wild Bergamot or Bee Balm, is a perennial plant valued for its distinctive, fragrant foliage and showy flowers. Originating from North America, this delightful plant is a popular choice among gardeners and is a great plant to grow if you wish to attract pollinators to your garden.
Wild Bergamot typically grows to a height of two to four feet (0.5 to 1.2 meters) and has a similar spread. Its leaves are aromatic, with a scent that is reminiscent of mint. It blooms from mid to late summer, when it sports clusters of tubular, lavender to pinkish flowers. These create a stunning display that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Gardeners favor Monarda fistulosa for its aromatic qualities, vibrant blooms, and its value for pollinators. The plant is ideal for perennial borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens. It is adaptable to a variety of climates, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9, and RHS hardiness zones H5.
How to Grow Monarda fistulosa in the Garden
Wild Bergamot prefers to a location with full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. It will grow best in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Though this versatile plantcan tolerate a variety of other soil conditions, including clay or rocky soils. While it can tolerate drier conditions once established, it does prefer a consistently moist soil.
To propagate Monarda fistulosa, you can either divide the plant in the spring or fall, or sow seeds directly into the garden in the fall (or startoff indoors in late winter). When sowing seeds, they should be lightly covered with soil (or simply press the seeds into the soil without covering) as they will require some light to germinate.
The planting of Wild Bergamot is best done in the spring or early fall. Space at about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart, this will allow for air circulation and greatly help in the prevention of mildew.
Once established, plants are relatively low-maintenance. Water regularly during dry spells, and apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and control weeds. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring, as this will encourage lusher growth and abundant blooms.
Pruning is recommended in early spring as this will promote a bushier growth habit and more flowering stems. Regular deadheading can also extend the blooming period, and also helps to prevent self-seeding and to prevent spread.
Quick Monarda fistulosa Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Monarda fistulosa
Common Name(s): Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 3-9 RHS Hardiness Rating: H5 (European hardy to about 5 to 14°F; -10°C to -15°C).
Best Used For / Garden Location: Used in borders, prairie and wildflower gardens. Prefers full sun to part shade.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Perennial.
Plant Height: 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters).
Plant Spread: 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters).
Blooms: Summer.
Flower Details: Lavender to pink tubular flowers in rounded heads.
Leaf Foliage: Green, lance-shaped, aromatic leaves.
Fruit: Brown, nut-like seed clusters.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun to part shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Well-drained, loamy soil. Can tolerate clay and rocky soils.
Sowing / planting: Sow seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
Germination time: 10-14 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C).
Propagation: Propagate by seeds, division, or stem cuttings.
Plant Care: Water regularly but do not overwater.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for large containers.
Growing as a House plant: Can be grown as a houseplant with sufficient light.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Tolerant to deer.
Pests and diseases: Can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: Monarda fistulosa 'Claire Grace', known for its disease resistance. Monarda fistulosa 'Peter's Purple', admired for its vibrant purple flowers.
Family: Lamiaceae, the Mint family.
Native: North America.
References and Further Reading: Missouri Botanical Garden; RHS Guide to American Wild Bergamot.
Common Questions
Is Monarda fistulosa a fragrant plant?
Yes, Monarda fistulosa is a fragrant plant. The leaves have a sweet, minty aroma, and the flowers have a more subtle scent. The foliage can be used for herbal teas.
Is Monarda fistulosa invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
It is native to North America and is thus not considered invasive. That said, it does self-seed readily and can readily spread, but is generally not aggressive.
How do I remove Monarda fistulosa from my garden?
To remove Monarda fistulosa, dig up the entire plant, be sure to remove the entire root system. Monitor the area for new sprouts, as the plant readily reseeds itself.
Summary
In summary, Monarda fistulosa is a valuable addition to any garden. This North American native prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Its vibrant lavender-pink flowers and fragrant foliage help toattract pollinators and make it a great choice for creating a sensory garden. Use en-masse in a pollinator garden or as a statement plant in a perennial border to add color, fragrance, and atteact wildlife to the landscape.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Wild bergamot. You may also enjoy the following fragrant plants growing guides: How to grow English Lavender, Fragrant Daphne, Fragrant Plantain lily, White Japanese Wisteria, and Hyacinthus plants in the garden.
