Wild Bergamot

In midsummer, this native wildflower graces the landscape with its light lavender blossoms, offering nectar to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It is an important and beloved native plant that signals a healthy and diverse Northeast meadow ecosystem—and a field aglow in the classic pink tone is a glorious sight to behold. To humans, Wild Bergamot, also known as Bee Balm, provides food and medicine. Its leaves and flowers are highly aromatic and spicy, like Greek oregano, and are used similarly. Sip teas made from the leaves and flowers, or add them to sauces, soups, and salads. Make tinctures to support the upper respiratory system. Or, most simply, toss the lovely tubular flowers onto any dish.