Illinois Native Plant Guide

Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa

Preferred Water Depth and Inundation Tolerance

Mesic prairie species. Minimal inundation tolerance.

Wildlife Value

Palatable in early growth by grazing species. Attracts butterflies and honeybees.

Application/Zone

Used for upland slope buffer stabilization. Slows water run off and holds soil.

Availability, Establishment, and Maintenance

• No pretreatment is needed for seed.
• Establishes readily from seed. Seed germinates best with light at warmer temperatures and should be stored dry.
• For divisions, divide mature clumps in March before stems are sent up. Dig up the plant and divide clump into sections. Replant divisions immediately.
• Can also be established from cuttings.

Wild Bergamot
Monarda fistulosa

Mature Height
Up to 3 feet

Plant Type
Perennial herb

Indicator Status
Facultative Upland

pH
Not available

Nutrient Load Tolerance
Moderate

Salt Tolerance
Not available

Siltation Tolerance
Low to moderate

Flowering Color and Time
Pink, lavender, purple, and rarely white
August to October

Light Preference
Partial to full sun

Seeding Rate
.125- 1 lb/acre

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