Bergamot, Monarda didyma
Bergamot ~ Monarda didyma
$6.50 in 9cm pot
Bergamot (Monarda didyma) also known as Scarlet Beebalm or Oswego Tea…
Bergamot is a native of north-east North America. It had its “5 minutes of fame” in 1773 when American patriots claimed ‘Oswego Tea’ was their beverage of choice, rather than the heavily taxed (imported) Oriental tea. All part of the political protest better known as the Boston Tea Party.
The flowers and leaves are used to make the tea. The plant prefers a cool to mild climate so would do well in a semi shaded spot in hot areas and grows well in poor soil. It’s an expanding clump herb (perennial) that can grow 400-1000mm tall with spectacular crimson/scarlet flowers in summer.