Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa
Botanical plate of Monarda fistulosa — Curtis-style illustration.
Monarda fistulosa, the wild bergamot or bee balm, is a wildflower in the mint family Lamiaceae, widespread and abundant as a native plant in much of North America. This plant, with showy summer-blooming pink to lavender flowers, is often used as a honey plant, medicinal plant, and garden ornamental. The species is quite variable, and several subspecies or varieties have been recognized within it.
Quick Facts
| Scientific name | Monarda fistulosa |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Height | 2-4 ft |
| Bloom time | Jul-Aug |
| Sun | Full sun to part shade |
| Moisture | Dry to mesic |
| Soil | Loam |
| Wildlife value | Perhaps the most generous pollinator plant in Minnesota - bees, moths, hummingbirds, butterflies |
Mentioned In
- Prairie Plants Grasslands
- Pollinators Wildlife
- Plant Identification Skills
- Garden Design Native Plants
- Planting Maintenance Sourcing
- Ecological Restoration
- Cultural Indigenous Uses
Image Credits
- Eric Hunt (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- D. Gordon E. Robertson (CC BY-SA 3.0)