Monarda, Bergamot, Wild Bergamot ~ 200 seeds

In midsummer, this native wildflower graces the landscape with its light lavender blossoms, offering nectar to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. To humans, Wild Bergamot provides food and medicine. Its leaves and flowers are highly aromatic and spicy, like Greek oregano, and are used similarly. Sip teas made from the leaves and flowers, or add them to sauces, soups, and salads. Make tinctures to support the upper respiratory system. Or, most simply, toss the lovely tubular flowers onto any dish.  

Growing Instructions
Broadcast Wild Bergamot outside about 8 weeks before the first fall frost, or surface sow indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost and gently press the seeds into the soil, then transplant seedlings outside in spring or summer, 6-8 weeks later. Plants usually do not produce flowers until their second year. Leaves and foliage are edible, and make a delicious tea. 

Quick Facts
Days to Germination: 5-25 days
Days to Maturity: 365 days
Planting Depth: 0-¼"
Spacing in Row: 12"
Spacing Between Rows: 12"
Height at Maturity: 48"
Width at Maturity: 12"
Sun Preference: Full Sun
Hardiness Zone Range: Zones 4-8

About the Artist
Art by Wendy Hollender. A botanical illustrator, Wendy crafts beautiful colored-pencil and watercolor renderings of plants of all types and teaches others how to do the same. With herbalist Dina Falconi, she created Foraging & Feasting: A Field Guide and Wild Food Cookbook.