This North American wildflower is other-worldly with its mesmerizing pink and lavender blooms. The stunning flowers–which really defy description, how did nature do that? –bloom throughout the summer. Lemon Bergamot is both a superb pollinator and potent medicinal. The flowers and leaves have a citrus-oregano aroma and make a great tasting tea. And despite its rather exuberant appearance, it is a low maintenance plant.
Health Benefits: A recent study (Kozyra et al 2023) found that dried extracts of the flowering heads of Monarda citriodora are ‘an important reservoir of natural antioxidant agents’, such as Apigenin, Gallic Acid and Rosmarinic Acid. The same study found the flowering heads are Antibacterial (against various strains of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria) and Antifungal.
How to Plant: Ease of Germination: Easy. Seeds are tiny, so it is best to start indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds just below the soil surface, cover seeds lightly with soil, and keep moist until seedlings are up. Bottom heat helps speed up germination. Transplant after the last frost date has passed, with about 8 inches between seedlings. Beautiful 3 foot plants when in bloom.
How to Harvest: Edible flowers can be sprinkled fresh in salads. For tea, cut the stalks a few inches above the ground when flowers are in bloom; dry flowers and leaves for tea.
Location: Sun, Partial sun
Life cycle: Annual
Usable Parts: Flowers, Leaves (dried, fresh)
Uses: Tea
Height: 24 to 36 inches
