Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Square stem with fine hairs; leaves opposite, on short stalks, up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide; leaves toothed along the margin; lower surface sometimes a faint purple; a fragrant aroma when crushed

Height

3 – 5 feet

Blooms

May-August

Description

Much branched and pleasantly scented, it is prominent in summer. Flowers may be lavender, lilac or rose

Comments

Found in a variety of grassland habitats from native prairie to disturbed pastures. Easy to establish from seed and is often used in native-plant seed mixes. It blooms the second year from seed and readily spreads in new plantings. Wild bergamot is a good nectar source for insects.

Seeds (scale is in  1/16 inch increments)	Seedling	Juvenile
Distinguishing Characteristics	Mature