Wild Bee-Balm (Wild Bergamot)

Monarda fistulosa

Native to: All New England

Life cycle: Perennial

Seed source(s): Garden-collected from plants sourced from Native Plant Trust (Framingham, MA)

Light: Full/Partial Sun

Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet to Dry

Height: 2-4’ Spread: 12-18" Spacing: 2-3’

Blooms: July-September

Bloom Color: purple

Natural Habitat: Woodlands, edges, meadows, and disturbed areas

Benefits: Deer/Rabbit Resistant, Pollinator Favorite, Bird Favorite, Urban Environment, Edible, Host Plant (eg. orange mint and hermit sphinx moths)

Pairs Well With: Foxglove beardtongue, Virginia mountain-mint, spotted bee balm, Virginia rose, and cranesbill geranium

“In mid-summer, distinctive lavender flowers bloom atop fragrant blue-green foliage, attracting butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Plant is aggressive in a small garden but is a great choice in a bed of its own or in a meadow. Leaves make a pleasant tea.”

–Wild Seed Project