One of the most widely adaptable native Monarda species, wild bergamot thrives in nearly any soil type and tolerates winter wet as well as summer drought - a confirmed deer-resistant magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds across a genuinely enormous native range.
Species Overview
Monarda fistulosa, or wild bergamot, is a native perennial found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands across most of North America. It grows 2 to 4 feet tall, with clusters of lavender or light purple tubular flowers blooming from mid-summer to fall, atop aromatic, lance-shaped leaves that release a fragrance similar to bergamot orange when crushed.
Application
Prairie, meadow, and naturalized restoration - highly adaptable to soil type
Perennial borders and herb gardens
Deer-pressured sites
Pollinator habitat - bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Growing Conditions / Specification Data
Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Any soil type; fairly drought resistant once established, also tolerates wet winter conditions
Drought Tolerance: High
Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry-mesic prairie species; not tolerant of standing water.
Plant Type: Forb
Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
Fall Color: Insignificant/None
Bloom Color / Period: Purple; June-August
Wetland Indicator Status: NI (No Indicator) - see flags
Native Range: Quebec and Manitoba south to Georgia, Louisiana, and Arizona
Pinch stems a few times early in growth to encourage denser, more floriferous habit; good air circulation reduces susceptibility to powdery mildew in humid or poorly-drained sites.
