Wildflower - Wild Bergamot

As we approach mid-summer, patches of blueish/purple  Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) are appearing along the roadsides and fields. Some of the many common names for this plant are bee balm, horsemint, bergamot, and Oswego Tea. Wild Bergamot is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae and has fragrant leaves.



Butterflies, hummingbirds and bees are attracted to Wild Bergamot as a nectar source. It is commonly planted in gardens to attract wildlife and also to provide a “naturalized” appearance in a border.



As the common name Bee Balm implies, bees are attracted to the flower for its nectar. A close-up of a bumble bee with its face deep into the tubular part of the flower.



A close-up view of the center of the flower.