Bergamot
Bergamot is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Bergamot is an aromatic, perennial herb, native to the USA which grows naturally in deciduous forests. It is grown for its pretty mauve flowers, for use in herb teas and for dried flower arrangements. It is attractive to butterflies, beneficial insects and bees. Although a member of the mint family it forms clumps rather than runs. It does best in cooler climates and will go dormant in winter. Grow it in full sun with a moist, fertile soil. In subtropical areas it will prefer light shade but may be relatively short-lived as it dislikes humidity. Sow spring; autumn in frost-free areas only.
Product: Bergamot
Product type: SEED (400)
Botanical name: Monarda fistulosa
Syn.: Syn. Bee balm, Oswego tea
Syn. Bee balm, Oswego tea; an aromatic, perennial herb, native to the USA which grows naturally in deciduous forests. It is grown for its pretty mauve flowers, for use in herb teas and for dried flower arrangements. It is attractive to butterflies, beneficial insects and bees. Although a member of the mint family it forms clumps rather than runs. It does best in cooler climates and will go dormant in winter.
Plant type: Herbaceous perennial to 60 - 90 cm
Sow when: Germinate best at 15 - 21°
Temperate: Spring after all danger of frost
Subtropical: Spring; autumn in frost-free areas only
Tropical: Unlikely to do well
Germination: 7 - 14 days
Depth: 3 mm deep, cover seed lightly; keep moist until germinated
Position: Full sun to partial shade; in subtropical areas plant in semi-shade
Sow where: Sow into seedling trays
Soil type: Fertile, moist, slightly acidic soil; keep mulched
Details: Cut plants back to the ground after flowering; keep the leaves dry
Harvest: Cut the stems before flowering; hang the bunches in a cool, dry place to make 'Earl Grey' flavoured tea
*Has edible flowers
*Good for bees
400 seeds per packet
Monarda fistulosa
Syn. Bee balm, Oswego tea
Herbaceous perennial to 60 - 90 cm
Bergamot
Bergamot is an aromatic, perennial herb, native to the USA which grows naturally in deciduous forests. It is grown for its pretty mauve flowers, for use in herb teas and for dried flower arrangements. It is attractive to butterflies, beneficial insects and bees. Although a member of the mint family it forms clumps rather than runs. It does best in cooler climates and will go dormant in winter. Grow it in full sun with a moist, fertile soil. In subtropical areas it will prefer light shade but may be relatively short-lived as it dislikes humidity. Sow spring; autumn in frost-free areas only.