Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

Also known as: Mintleaf beebalm, Horsemint

Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), also known as bee balm, is a mint family wildflower that draws numerous bees and hummingbirds. It's known for its strong-flavored tea, and some varieties are grown for their lemony-scented essential oil.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Wild bergamot

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.1 m

Spread

60 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green Gray

Flower Size

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Pink Purple Lavender Violet

Images of Wild bergamot

Quickly Identify Wild bergamot

Square stem characteristic of mint family

Lavender to pinkish flowers in dense rounded clusters

Toothed, opposite, oblong leaves with grayish-green color

Dry nutlet fruit less than 1/6 inch with brown color

Aromatic foliage emits pleasant fragrance when crushed

Scientific Classification of Wild bergamot

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Bergamot

Species

Wild bergamot

Planting and Growing of Wild bergamot

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Wild bergamot?

When it comes to watering Monarda fistulosa, aim for a thorough soak until the top 2 to 3 inches of soil are moist. This generally translates to around 500 milliliters of water per session, ensuring the roots receive adequate moisture without drowning the plant. Consistency is key, so maintain a balance to prevent waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Wild bergamot? ›

What should I do if my Wild bergamot is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Wild bergamot? ›

How to save an overwatered Wild bergamot? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Wild bergamot?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Ideally, Monarda fistulosa benefits from full sun exposure or semi-shade, which promotes vigorous growth and vibrant flowering. Adequate light enhances its resilience to diseases and pest attacks.

What type of sunlight does Monarda fistulosa prefer? ›

How can you ensure Monarda fistulosa receives ideal light? ›

What are the benefits of Monarda fistulosa receiving ideal sunlight? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Wild bergamot?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Monarda fistulosa is between 60°F and 75°F. These temperatures support robust growth, vibrant blooms, and healthy foliage. The plant thrives in temperate conditions, where both heat and moisture are balanced.

What Soil is Best for Wild bergamot?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Monarda fistulosa thrives in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. Good drainage ensures roots remain healthy, reducing the risk of root rot and ensuring robust plant growth. This plant flourishes in nutrient-rich soils that provide essential nutrients for vibrant blooms. A well-fertilized substrate can lead to enhanced growth and more prolific flowering. While drainage is crucial, soil should retain enough moisture to sustain plant life during dry spells. This balance ensures consistent hydration without oversaturation. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Wild bergamot?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Monarda fistulosa, use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Apply liquid fertilizer at a rate of half the recommended amount listed on the package. This moderation ensures the plant receives necessary nutrients without risk of root burn, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Wild bergamot?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

In spring, cut back the previous year’s growth to about 6–8 inches above the ground. This will encourage new, vigorous growth for the upcoming season. Ensure you're cutting just above a set of healthy leaves to promote strong shoots. Regularly deadhead by removing spent blooms to prolong the blooming period and promote more flowering. This not only keeps the plant looking tidy but also directs energy towards producing new flowers. After flowering, cut back spent flower stalks and reduce the size of the plant by about a third. This helps tidy up the plant for winter, reducing the risk of disease. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Wild bergamot plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring,Early spring,Summer

Start by filling the seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with more mix to provide darkness. Maintain moderate moisture and light until germination occurs.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems of about 4-6 inches in length. Make clean cuts just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves to prevent rotting.

Carefully dig around the Monarda fistulosa plant to expose the roots. Use a spade to separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has a good root system. Replant the divisions promptly.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Wild bergamot plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Monarda fistulosa should be repotted when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, the soil becomes compacted, or the plant's growth appears stunted. These signals indicate that the plant has outgrown its current container and requires more space to thrive.

Select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one. This ensures that the plant doesn't sit in excess water, which can lead to root rot. A pot with good drainage holes is essential to allow water to escape and prevent waterlogging. The material of the pot can be terracotta, which helps in regulating soil moisture.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix that retains some moisture but still provides adequate aeration for the roots. This type of soil helps prevent root diseases by ensuring excess water drains away while still keeping the roots moist enough for healthy growth.