Bergamot 'Lemon' (Monarda citriodora)
Regular price $19.95Lemon Bergamot is a culinary and medicinal herb, native to the United States and Mexico that blooms in the late spring and early summer. Its 3-foot stem is covered in dense purple whorls, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and herbalists to the garden, while its lemon-scented leaves add a subtle, fresh scent. Bergamot can be grown year-round as a perennial or as an annual in colder climates.
Growing Tips
Plant Bergamot in full sun to part shade and provide rich, well-draining soil with regular moisture. These adaptable native perennials establish easily and benefit from good airflow, especially in humid conditions. Water consistently while plants are getting established, then reduce watering as they become established, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Monarda spreads gradually by underground stems and can be divided when needed to manage its size and encourage vigorous growth. Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and enjoy the fragrant foliage and colorful flowers throughout the growing season.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Monarda didyma, Monarda fistulosa,
Monarda citriodora |
| Common Names | Bee Balm, Oswego Tea, Scarlet Beebalm, Red Bergamot, Lemon Bee Balm, Lemon Mint, Purple Horsemint, Lemon Bergamot, Plains Horsemint |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Origin | Eastern North America |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 2–4 ft × 2–3 ft |
| Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining, moisture-retentive |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Flower Color | Scarlet Red |
| USDA Zones | 4–9 |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Division, Cuttings, Seeds |
| Seasonal Traits | Deciduous |
| Time to Harvest | Leaves anytime; flowers at peak bloom |
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