Common Name: |
Bergamot |
Other Names: |
Oswego Tea, Bee Balm |
Botanical Name: |
Monarda didyma |
Genus: |
Monarda |
Family: |
Lamiaceae |
Native Location: |
Eastern N America |
Cultivation: |
Rich, moist soil in sun (Monarda didyma); sandy or rocky soil in sun (M. citriodora); light, dry, alkaline soil in sun (M. fistulosa and M. punctata). M. didyma is prone to mildew in dry conditions. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in spring or autumn; by division in spring; by softwood cuttings in early summer. |
Harvest: |
Plants are cut when flowering, and leaves before flowering, and used fresh or dried for infusions. |
Height: |
40cm-1.2m (16-48in) |
Width: |
45cm (18in) |
Hardiness: |
Z4-10 |
Parts Used: |
Whole Plant, Leaves, Flowers |
Properties: |
An aromatic, stimulant, expectorant herb that lowers fever and benefits the digestion. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for minor digestive complaints. |
Culinary Uses: |
Fresh or dried leaves and flower-heads are infused as tea, and give an Earl Grey flavor to China tea and iced drinks. Flowers are added to salads. |
Bibliography: |
The Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg.280 |