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Lamiaceae
Purple Bergamot
Monarda media
Protection and warmth.
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Genus
- Monarda
- Native to
- Eastern North America
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Type
- perennial
- Height
- 2-4 ft
- Sunlight
- full sun to partial shade
- Soil
- moist, well-drained
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 4-8
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- Purple bergamot is a natural hybrid between Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa, combining traits of both parents.
- Its aromatic leaves contain thymol, a natural antiseptic that Native Americans used to treat mouth and throat infections.
- Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators, as the tubular flowers perfectly match their long, curved bills.
- The dried flower heads persist through winter and provide seeds for goldfinches and other small birds.
- Bergamot tea made from Monarda leaves was a popular substitute for imported tea after the Boston Tea Party of 1773.
Color meanings
0
protection
1
compassion
2
virtue