Wild Bergamot - PollinateHV Local Ecotype

In the height of summer, this native powerhouse transforms the garden into a bustling hub of activity. Wild Bergamot, a showy relative of mint, sends up lavender, tubular blooms that act as a beacon for "flashy" pollinators, including hummingbirds, hummingbird moths, and skippers. It serves as a crucial host plant for the hermit sphinx moth and signals a thriving, diverse ecosystem. Adaptable and hardy, it thrives in a range of sun and soil conditions, spreading via rhizomes to create a field aglow with color that—thanks to its strong, herby taste—deer and other browsing mammals will happily leave alone.

Beyond its ecological beauty, this plant, often called Bee Balm, is a versatile addition to the kitchen and apothecary. Its leaves and flowers carry a spicy, aromatic kick reminiscent of Greek oregano. Harvest them to brew soothing teas, create tinctures for respiratory support, or simply sprinkle the petals over salads and savory dishes for a burst of flavor and color. Whether you are restoring a meadow or stocking a kitchen garden, this dual-purpose native is an essential companion.

This local ecotype seed is of Hudson Valley wild origin and has been scaled for production on our farm in Accord, NY.

PollinateHV is a collaboration between the Hudson Valley Seed Company and The Understory in support of threatened native pollinators.

 We worked with a team of expert botanists, seed collectors, nursery growers and farmers to produce local ecotype native seeds to support at-risk Hudson Valley pollinators. You can find more information about this project at pollinatehv.org/seed-work. Learn more about the Hudson Valley's threatened pollinators and find resources to install pollinator habitat at all scales at pollinatehv.org.