Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Bergamot Plant for Your Landscape

Bergamot plants, also known as bee balm, are a popular addition to gardens and landscapes thanks to their vibrant, showy blooms and strong fragrance. However, not all bergamot plants are created equal when it comes to size. Some varieties can grow up to 6 feet tall, while others max out at just 1 foot. Choosing the right size bergamot plant for your landscape is key to ensuring that it not only looks great but also fits in with your overall design aesthetic.

Understanding Bergamot Size Variations

Before you can choose the right bergamot plant for your landscape, you need to understand the variations in size that exist within this species. There are several different types of bergamot plants, each with their own unique growth habits.

• Wild Bergamot: This is the most common type of bergamot plant, known for its purple-pink flowers and strong fragrance. Wild bergamot can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

• Lemon Bergamot: A smaller variety of bergamot plant, lemon bergamot reaches just 1 foot in height and spread. It produces white or pale pink flowers and has a citrusy scent.

• Spotted Bee Balm: This variety of bergamot plant features red-purple flowers with white spots. It grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

• Gardenview Scarlet Bee Balm: As its name suggests, this bergamot plant has scarlet-red flowers and grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

• Marshall’s Delight Bee Balm: Marshall’s Delight is a compact variety of bergamot plant that grows just 18 inches tall and wide. Its flowers are lavender-pink in color.

Choosing the Right Bergamot Plant for Your Landscape

Now that you know the different sizes of bergamot plants available, you can choose the right one for your landscape. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Space Constraints

If you have a small garden or limited space, then a compact variety like Lemon Bergamot or Marshall’s Delight will be the best option. These plants won’t take up much space but will still provide a burst of color and fragrance.

Design Aesthetic

Consider the overall look of your landscape design when choosing a bergamot plant. If you’re going for a wildflower meadow look, then Wild Bergamot or Spotted Bee Balm will fit right in. If you’re looking for something more formal, then Gardenview Scarlet Bee Balm may be a better choice.

Maintenance Requirements

Bergamot plants require some maintenance to keep them healthy and looking their best. Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into caring for your plants when making your selection. Some varieties may require more pruning or deadheading than others.

FAQs

Q: Are all bergamot plants hardy?

A: Yes, bergamot plants are generally hardy and can survive winter temperatures in most regions.

Q: Can I grow bergamot plants in containers?

A: Yes, compact varieties like Lemon Bergamot or Marshall’s Delight are well-suited for container gardens.

Q: Do I need to fertilize my bergamot plants?

A: While not strictly necessary, fertilizing your bergamot plants once a year in the spring can help promote healthy growth and flowering.

Q: Do bergamot plants attract bees?

A: Yes, bergamot plants are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. If you’re allergic to bee stings or don’t want bees in your garden, then bergamot may not be the best choice for you.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size bergamot plant for your landscape is crucial to achieving the look you want while also ensuring that your plants thrive. Take into account factors like space constraints, design aesthetic, and maintenance requirements when selecting your plants. With so many sizes and colors of bergamot plants available, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for your garden or landscape.