Wild bergamot, Horsemint
Monarda fistulosa
Family: Lamiaceae
What it is like
An annual plant. The stems are reddish or can have purple-red spots. It branches near the tip. It has white hairs. The leaf stalk is 2-15 mm long. The leaf blade is sword shaped or oval and about 8 cm long by 3 mm wide. The base is rounded. The edges of the leaf have unequal teeth. The flower heads are 5 cm across. The flowers are purple-red.
There are 15 Monarda species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It can tolerate drier conditions. It suits hardiness zones 4-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, Canada, China, North America, Slovenia, Tasmania, USA
How it is used for food
The plant is used as a potherb. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. It can be cooked with other foods as a seasoning. Fresh or dried leaves are used for tea.
It is cultivated in China.
Edible parts
Flowers, leaves, tea
How it is grown
It can be grown from seed, cuttings of division.
Its other names
Local names
Ni mei guo bo he, Vijoličasta monarda, Wild bee balm