Monarda hybrida Blaustrumpf - Beebalm

This Bergamot, known as Monarda Blaustrumpf, is a late-flowering variety that produces mauve to light violet flowers grouped around violet-tinted bracts. The spider-like inflorescence consists of highly sculpted petals that appear tousled around a well-defined centre, resembling the corollas of Echinaceae, positioned above the aromatic mass of foliage. This tall perennial has a bushy and upright habit, with medium green toothed leaves that are fairly resistant to powdery mildew. It is an accommodating plant, suitable for planting in ordinary soil, moist but not too dry, well-drained, in full sun or partial shade, ideal for sunny borders or cool woodland areas.

The 'Blaustrumpf' Bergamot belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many medicinal and aromatic plants. It is one of the numerous hybrids obtained through cross-breeding, which frequently occurs spontaneously in gardens, between two wild species, Monarda didyma and Monarda fistulosa, both native to North America. Most of the varieties available are hybrids, often more floriferous than the species they originate from. It is a herbaceous perennial, showing an upright habit from spring, reaching a height of 90cm (35in) with a spread of 50cm (20in). Flowering takes place from August to September-October, lasting 8 weeks towards the end of summer. The tousled shape of the inflorescences adds to its uniqueness. They are composed of small flowers measuring 3 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in length, surrounded by green bracts tinted with violet, and have two lips, an upright upper lip and a lower lip cut into three lobes. They are borne on upright stems. The flowers are nectar-rich. The medium green foliage is aromatic. When crushed, it releases a characteristic citrus scent. The leaves are opposite, veined, and toothed, measuring 10 to 15cm (4 to 6in) in length, and often attract insects. This plant covers the ground in two or three years, spreading with its fine rhizomes without becoming invasive. It is highly hardy and can also be long-lived if the growing conditions are good.

In borders and flower beds, 'Blaustrumpf' Bergamot pairs well with summer-flowering perennials in vibrant or pastel colours. Plant it in groups to create a beautiful mass of flowers, with six plants, and combine it with orange, yellow, pink, or fuchsia-coloured daylilies or pink salvia. 'Blaustrumpf' Bergamot also pairs well in late summer with Asters lateriflorus, Campanula lactiflora, Echinaceae, and other perennial plants. It is also suitable for planting in borders and along the banks of water features, as it thrives in cool conditions. It can also be found in meadows and forests. These flowers are delightful for creating beautiful bouquets. It is worth noting that bergamot contains essential oils similar to those of thyme, whose virtues were already known to Native Americans. Bergamot leaves or flowers, fresh or dried, can be used to make herbal tea. The young shoots can also be used in salads or as stuffing for roasts.