Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa var. menthifolia 'Sweet'
Lamiaceae
Growth habit
Herbaceous
Perennation
Perennial
Biocultural value
Due to its high geraniol content, the foliage has an intense rose scent.
Location
Palmer-Kinne Dogwood Collection, Robison Herb Garden
Source of plant
Richters, Well-Sweep Herb Farm
Description
Perennial reaching 4' in height, sometimes pubescent above; leaves ovate-lanceolate to broadly ovate, to 4" long, acute to acuminate, weakly serrate to nearly entire, generally pubescent, petioles over 1/4" long; flowers usually solitary, terminal, headlike verticillasters; calyx to 3/8" long, hirsute in the throat, teeth bristly; corolla to 1 1/4" long, bright lavender, pubescent outside; summer blooming. (DS 3) This variety is found in western North America. Plants contain up to 91 to 93% geraniol in the essential oil.
USDA Hardiness Zone
5
Special characteristics
other ethnobotanical uses, fragrance