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Monarda clinopodia (White Bergamot)

Basil Beebalm, Basil Bergamot, White Bergamot, Monarda allophylla, Monarda fistulosa var. clinopodia

White Bergamot, Monarda clinopodia, Basil Beebalm, Basil Bergamot, Monarda allophylla, Monarda fistulosa var. clinopodia
White Bergamot, Monarda clinopodia, Basil Beebalm, Basil Bergamot, Monarda allophylla, Monarda fistulosa var. clinopodia

Monarda clinopodia (White Bergamot) is a multifaceted plant that not only enhances the beauty of a garden but also supports local ecosystems with its pollinator-friendly flowers and aromatic leaves that can be utilized in culinary dishes and herbal remedies. Its adaptability to different environments and relatively easy care make it a favored choice among gardeners looking to create a natural, wildlife-supporting landscape.

Monarda clinopodia – White Bergamot: An In-depth Look

Monarda clinopodia, also known as white bergamot or basil bee balm, is a striking perennial plant that brings beauty and ecological benefits to gardens and wild areas alike. It features lush, aromatic foliage and distinctive, tubular white flowers. The blooms are arranged in dense, globular clusters atop square, sturdy stems, a signature of the mint family.
Monarda clinopodia is noted for its resistance to powdery mildew compared to other Monarda species, making it a more resilient choice for humid climates or crowded plantings.

Native: This species is native to the eastern and central United States, where it grows naturally in woodlands, along streams, and in moist meadows. It belongs to the mint, deadnettle, or sage family, Lamiaceae.

Plant Type and Habit: White Bergamot is a herbaceous perennial that forms clumps and spreads slowly via rhizomes. It has a vertical growth habit with branching stems.

Size: Typically, it grows to about 3 to 6 feet tall (90-180 cm) and spreads around 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm), depending on the growing conditions.

Flowers: The plant produces whorled flower clusters, about 2 inches across (5 cm), of white to creamy white blooms with purple spots on the lower lips. Each flower cluster is surrounded by leafy bracts that may have a pale green to whitish hue. The flowers are mildly fragrant. Blooming occurs from early summer to early fall and lasts about 2-3 weeks .

Fruits: The fruits are small, dry capsules containing tiny, nut-like seeds, which can be used for propagation.

Foliage: The leaves are ovate to lanceolate, medium green, and have a serrated edge. They emit a pleasant aroma when crushed, which can be reminiscent of oregano or thyme.

Uses: White Bergamot is often used in native plant gardens, pollinator gardens, and for natural landscaping. Its leaves can be used as a flavoring in cooking and teas. Native Americans used the plant to treat a variety of ailments.

Hardiness: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate climates.

Wildlife: It is highly attractive to bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which feed on the nectar. Its dense foliage also provides shelter for small wildlife.

Deer and Rabbit: While not completely resistant, White Bergamot is less favored by deer due to its aromatic oils, which tend to deter these herbivores.

Toxicity: There are no known toxic effects to humans or animals, making it a safe addition to gardens frequented by pets and children.

Invasiveness: This species is not considered invasive. It spreads at a moderate pace and can be controlled with regular maintenance.

Benefits: Besides its aesthetic appeal, it offers ecological benefits such as enhancing biodiversity by supporting pollinators and improving soil health through its root system.

White Bergamot, Monarda clinopodia, Basil Beebalm, Basil Bergamot, Monarda allophylla, Monarda fistulosa var. clinopodia

White Bergamot Growing Tips

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages more blooms.

Soil: Thrives in rich, well-draining soil.

Water: Requires consistent moisture. Water regularly, especially in dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist.

Fertilizer: Benefits from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Alternatively, enrich soil with compost annually.

Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to promote additional blooming. Cut back plants in late fall to help prevent disease and encourage vigorous growth in spring.

Propagation: Easily propagated by division in spring or fall. Seeds can be sown directly in fall or started indoors in early spring.

Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. White Bergamot has good powdery mildew resistance but allow good airflow around it. Avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risks.

Requirements

Hardiness 5 - 8
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Lamiaceae
Genus Monarda
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Spread 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)
Spacing 24" - 36" (60cm - 90cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Fragrant
Native Plants United States, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Vermont, Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Missouri, Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee
Tolerance Deer
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds And Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Monarda media (Purple Bergamot)
Monarda ‘Blue Stocking’ (Bee Balm)
Monarda didyma (Scarlet Bee Balm)
Monarda citriodora (Lemon Bee Balm)
Monarda ‘Raspberry Wine’ (Bee Balm)
Monarda bradburiana (Eastern Bee Balm)

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 5 - 8
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Lamiaceae
Genus Monarda
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height 3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Spread 2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)
Spacing 24" - 36" (60cm - 90cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Fragrant
Native Plants United States, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Vermont, Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Missouri, Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee
Tolerance Deer
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds And Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Monarda (Bee Balm)
Guides with
Monarda (Bee Balm)
Not sure which Monarda (Bee Balm) to pick?
Compare Now

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