Wild Bergamot
Wild bergamot is a native perennial flower. In mid-summer, the clump-forming, upright plant produces clusters of curved lavender flowers. Fragrant, tubular-shaped flowers grow above the surrounding bracts. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Wild bergamot is less colorful and showy than other cultivars of bee balm, but is more tolerant of dry conditions. In fall, its leaf color can be gold, red and yellow.
Wild Bergamot
Wild bergamot is a native perennial flower. In mid-summer, the clump-forming, upright plant produces clusters of curved lavender flowers. Fragrant, tubular-shaped flowers grow above the surrounding bracts. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Wild bergamot is less colorful and showy than other cultivars of bee balm, but is more tolerant of dry conditions. In fall, its leaf color can be gold, red and yellow.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Monarda fistulosa
Pronunciation
mo-NAR-da fist-yoo-LOW-suh
Mature Height
2 to 3 ft.
Mature Spread
18 to 24 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
purple
Bloom time
June through mid-July
Colorado Native
Yes
Natural Habitat
North America
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 4-8
Elevation Limit
hardy to 9,000 ft.
Performance
At the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden, these plants have been grown in the moderate water zone. The flowers are very pretty and pollinators frequently visit this plant. Powdery mildew can be a problem if there is not enough air circulation.
Maintenance
It is essential to place these plants in an area with good air circulation. Those in tighter spaces will always be affected by powdery mildew. Cut old stems and leaves to ground level in late winter.