Monarda didyma

Bergamot, Monarda didyma, is an herbaceous perennial with distinctive flowerheads. Each one consists of a large number of curving tubular flowers growing out from a central point, creating a shaggy dome of petals. The plant has a long flowering season, from early summer to early autumn, and blooms almost continuously if deadheaded periodically. Bergamot foliage is aromatic, and leaves are sometimes picked for pot-pourri. The leaves, which have a high oil content, have also been used in cosmetics and the North American Oswego tribe used it to make tea in the 18th century.

Monarda didyma is extremely attractive to bees and butterflies. Grow plants in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Mulch around the roots with garden compost annually. Plants can spread quickly in its preferred conditions, so clumps may need to be divided about every three years. The best time to do this is in spring. Keep plants well watered to avoid powdery mildew, which this plant is susceptible to in dry conditions.

Bergamot is native to North America. It’s often used as a plant partner to grasses in prairie-style combinations. There are many interesting varieties available, in shades of red, pink, white or lilac. A couple that have the RHS Award of Garden Merit include ‘Marshall’s Delight’, which is resistant to mildew with bright pink flowers, and ‘Squaw’ which has scarlet flowers.