Menthifolia Bee Balm

Mintleaf bergamot is an upright, rhizomatous perennial with aromatic foliage and lavender-to-rose flowers from summer into early fall. Its nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, and it fits sunny or partly shaded naturalistic plantings. ## Size and setting A [Colorado State University Extension profile](https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2020/09/Perennial-Profile-Native-Lavender-Bee-Balm_rev2.pdf) describes Native Lavender Bee Balm at about 3 feet tall by 2 feet wide; the [Fort Collins plant list](https://apps.fcgov.com/plant-list/?view=783-wild-bergamont) gives a wider local range of 1–4 feet tall and 1.5–4 feet across. It spreads by underground rhizomes, so allow room for a colony to expand. The [Denver Botanic Gardens profile](https://navigate.botanicgardens.org/weboi/oecgi2.exe/INET_ECM_DispPl?NAMENUM=24971&startpage=1) lists USDA Zone 5 as its coldest hardy zone and accepts sun or partial sun. Fort Collins recommends full sun and low water. ## Soil and garden use This western North American native tolerates varied local soils, including clay when drainage is good. Once established it is drought-tolerant. Use it in pollinator beds, prairie-inspired borders, and other well-drained plantings; its aromatic leaves and summer flowers bring sensory interest as well as nectar. ## Maintenance Water while establishing, then reduce supplemental watering as conditions allow. Divide the rhizomatous clump every few years to manage its spread or make new plants. Remove spent flower stems if you want to limit self-seeding.