Bee Balm / Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

A perennial flower, Wild Bergamot (A.K.A. Bee Balm) flowers from June to September and is native across much of North America. It thrives in full to partial sun and adapts well to a variety of soil types including sandy, clay, and loam soils with dry to moderate moisture. Commonly found in floodplains, open woodlands, and mesic prairies, it’s known for its gray-green foliage and pink to lavender blooms. The leaves have a distinct mint scent and can be used to make tea. A top-tier pollinator plant, it attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, bumblebees, and other native bees. Seeds can be broadcast on a weed-free surface from January to mid-May in sunny locations. Once germinated, seedlings should be watered during extended dry periods. During the first summer of full growth, mow the area 3 to 5 times to keep plants between 4 and 8 inches tall and reduce weed pressure. Continue to add leaf mold or compost to the soil, as Wild Bergamot spreads easily through light soil. Recommended for home gardens, rain gardens, prairie mixes, and naturalized meadows.

Height: 20–48 inches
Color: Pink to Lavender (Purple range)
Hardiness Zone: 3–9
Bloom Period: June–September (Summer)
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Dry to Moderate
Lifespan: Perennial
Seeds per Pound: 1,463,000
Seeding Rate: 1 oz. covers 4,000 sq. ft. | 0.5 lbs. per acre