Common Name: Wild Bergamot or Bee Balm

Sci Name: Monarda fistulosa

Type of plant: Herbaceous perennial

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil

Moisture: Moderate moisture

Season of Interest: Summer

Height: Typically 2-4 feet tall

Width: 1-2 feet wide

Color: Lavender to pinkish-purple flowers

Where to Plant: Gardens, meadows, or naturalized areas

Benefits for area: Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds; adds color and fragrance to the landscape

Medicinal: Used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and antifungal properties; also used to soothe sore throats and alleviate cold symptoms

Edible: Leaves and flowers can be used to make herbal tea or added to salads for flavor

Host plant for: Various butterflies and moths

1. Hermit sphinx moth (Sphinx eremitus)

2. Clearwing moth (Hemaris spp.)

3. Common Buckeye butterfly (Junonia coenia)

4. Hummingbird Clearwing moth (Hemaris thysbe)

5. White-lined Sphinx moth (Hyles lineata)

Spring Care: Cut back any dead growth from the previous year and provide light fertilizer.

Summer Care: Water regularly to maintain moderate moisture levels, deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Fall Care: Mulch around the base of the plant to protect roots during winter.

Winter Care: Wild Bergamot is hardy and typically requires zero care in winter.