Monarda fistulosa - Wild Bergamot
 This
purple flower can often be found in clearings in wooded areas, though it
is also sometimes grown as an ornamental. The common name comes from the
Bergamot orange. Settlers who tasted a tea made from its leaves were reminded
of Earl Grey. The dried leaves and flower heads of this and other related
species (such as Bee-Balm or Oswego Tea (M. didyma) can be used to make
a tea that can optionally be sweetened to taste or mixed with other teas.
Oil from the flowers was once used to treat respiratory problems. |
| Family: Mint (Lamiaceae)
Blooms: June through September Native to: I believe America, but not certain Photo Location: Top - Fenton, MI |
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