Wild Bergamont is a perennial herb in the Mint family that can grow up to four feet tall, characterized by leaves up to four inches in length and clusters of pink to purple flowers of one to three inches in diameter. Wild Bergamot is an important native species for pollinators in the United States, and is one of the most preferred species for bees, especially bumblebees.
Wild Bergamont grows in rich, limey soils in dry fields, thickets and clearings. It prefers open fields and meadows that have not been cultivated for some time. It is native from Quebec to the Northwest Territories and British Columbia, and as far South as Georgia, Texas, Idaho and Northeast Washington.
(Monarda Fistulosa)~ Wahpe Wastemna Seeds
~200 seeds per packet
WILD BERGAMONT BEE BALM
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring or sow directly outside in autumn.
Bergamot seeds need light for germination, so press seeds firmly into the soil to ensure good contact while still allowing some light.
Seeds will take 10-28 days to germinate with a soil temperature of 60-70°F.
Bloom Time: July through September
Best in full sun, grows in wide range of soils from rich to poor, sandy to clay, dry to moist, pH 6.8 to 7.2. Can be propagated by root division - this mint family member can aggressively colonize an area by rhizomes. Can be propagated by seed without stratification. Seeds are ripe about 2 months after bloom.