Monarda fistulosa is a native perennial wildflower prized for its aromatic foliage and soft lavender to pink tubular flowers that bloom in dense tufted clusters. Also known as Wild Bergamot, it belongs to the mint family and spreads by rhizomes to form attractive drifts. It is well loved for its long summer bloom period and ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators.
Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 24 - 36 in
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Tolerant of a wide range of soils but prefers well drained loam
Watering Needs: Moderate; tolerates drought once established
Deer Resistance: Strongly scented foliage deters browsing by deer and rabbits
Native Status
Monarda fistulosa is native to much of North America particularly throughout the central and eastern United States. It thrives in prairies, meadows, and woodland edges supporting native ecosystems and pollinator communities.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Highly attractive to bumblebees, sweat bees, and mason bees which forage on its abundant tubular flowers.
Butterflies
- Draws swallowtails, Monarchs, and Painted Ladies with its plentiful nectar and open landing platform.
Hummingbirds
- Ruby Throated Hummingbirds frequently visit the flowers for their high nectar content and tubular shape.
Beneficial Insects
- Encourages hoverflies and predatory wasps that feed on garden pests and support natural pest control.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 18 - 24 in spacing to form open clumps and reduce risk of powdery mildew.
Landscape Placement:
- Well suited for wildflower meadows, pollinator gardens, herb gardens, and naturalized plantings where its spreading habit and wildlife value are showcased.
Companion Plants
- Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Fine textured grass adds movement and seasonal color while supporting wildlife.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Bright yellow flowers provide contrast in both color and texture while blooming concurrently.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Bold purple blooms and strong stems mirror Monarda’s upright form and pollinator appeal.
- Liatris spicata 'Kobold' - Tall vertical spikes of purple flowers pair well with Monarda’s rounded clusters.
- Pycnanthemum muticum - Aromatic foliage and pale flowers enhance sensory diversity and attract native bees.