Monarda didyma (bergamot) — Perennial

Overview

Monarda didyma is a perennial in the genus Monarda, part of the Q53476 family, with deciduous foliage. Monarda didyma grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to N America.

About

Monarda didyma is a deciduous perennial grown for its aromatic foliage and red summer flowers. Native to North America, it produces showy flower heads through June to September. The leaves give off a pronounced fragrance when crushed, and the plant prefers a sunny spot in moist, well-drained soil. It survives UK winters as a fully hardy perennial (H7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Monarda didyma

About the genus

Monarda is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The genus is endemic to North America. Common names include bergamot, bee balm, horsemint, and oswego tea, the first being inspired by the fragrance of the leaves, which is reminiscent of bergamot orange.

Wikipedia contributors, "Monarda", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Monarda

In the garden

Monarda didyma is a North American perennial notable for its aromatic leaves and red summer blooms. It is deciduous and valued where leaf scent is wanted as much as the flowers, which appear from June to September. Plant it in full sun to bring out the foliage scent and to encourage the flowering season. Soil need is broad: sandy, loamy or clay soils suit it provided they remain moist but well drained. The UK hardiness rating H7 means it tolerates exposed and cold winter conditions across the British Isles; the USDA range 4–10 indicates the species can tolerate a wide climatic span. Keep soil consistently damp rather than bone dry for best summer display. In a UK garden, Monarda didyma sits well at the back or middle of a sun border, beside paths or patios where the leaf fragrance can be enjoyed, or planted close to seating. Because the foliage is aromatic when handled, placing plants within reach of a chair or walkway makes the scent an intentional part of the planting scheme. Crush a leaf to release its bergamot-like scent and confirm its name.