Botanical Interests Wild Bergamot Seeds

Native to U.S. prairies, this heirloom is also known as monarda, horsemint, wild bee balm and Oswego tea (because of it's use by Native Americans). It's complex flavor is a combination of oregano, thyme and mint; a unique seasoning for jellies, salads and other savory dishes. The showy, pinkish-lavender flowers bloom all summer to the delight of bees, hummingbirds and butterflies, the wood nymph butterfly in particular. Adaptable to short periods of drought and poor soils and resistant to mildew. Perennial in USDA zones 3 to 9. Deer resistant.

Variety

Pink to light-lavender, 3/4" - 1-1/4" florets are arranged in a whorl around a pincushion-like center, creating a 2"-4" flattened pom-pom-shaped flower.

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Native: Most of North America East of The Rocky Mountains
• Hardiness: Perennial In USDA Zones 3-9
• Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Bloom Period: Summer to Fall
• Plant Dimensions: 36"-48" Tall and about 18"-24" Wide
• Attributes: Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Attracts Pollinators, Cut Flower, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible Flower, Heat Tolerant

Sowing

When to Sow Outside

2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date or in late summer to fall.

When to Start Inside

Recommended. 8 to 10 weeks before your average last frost date.

• Days To Emerge: 14-21 days
• Seed Depth: Surface To 1/16"
• Seed Spacing: A Group of 5 Seeds Every 18"-24"
• Thinning: When 1" Tall, Thin To 1 Every 18"-24"

Growing

Harvesting

For longest vase life, cut stems when one ring of florets has opened. Change vase water often.

Specifications

• Type: Conventional Heirloom