About
Monarda fistulosa (duplicate record � see main entry at 7482). Monarda fistulosa, American wild bergamot, is a clump-forming, aromatic perennial with pale-purple whorled flowers beloved by bees and butterflies.
About the genus
Monarda, the bergamots or bee balms, are clump-forming herbaceous perennials and annuals with aromatic, ovate leaves and terminal whorls of two-lipped, tubular flowers in red, pink, purple or white from summer to early autumn. Excellent bee and butterfly plants for sunny borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesSub-tropical, Houseplants
Native toMexico to Panama
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, indirect light with moderate to high humidity. Water when in growth and keep just moist in winter. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly when in growth. May be kept outdoors in warmer regions, but at temperatures no less than 18°C, in most moderately fertile, humus-rich soils in partial shade. See houseplant cultivation and Monstera for further information
PruningPruning group 11
PropagationPropagate by seed, root tip or stem cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free