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Description
Monarda Citriodora, also known as Lemon Bergamot Plant, is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to Texas and Mexico and found in other areas of the United States. The plant produces a strong lemon scent when its leaves are crushed, making it a popular choice for use in teas, cooking, and potpourri. It is a hardy annual and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The plant blooms in mid to late summer, producing lavender-pink flowers that attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Monarda |
Appearance
The Lemon Bergamot Plant has square stems and lance-shaped leaves that are up to 3 inches long. The leaves are a light green color and have a strong lemon scent when crushed. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It produces lavender-pink flowers that are tubular in shape and clustered at the top of the plant. The flowers are about 1 inch long and bloom in mid to late summer.
Care Guide
To care for the Lemon Bergamot Plant:
Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The Lemon Bergamot Plant is hardy in zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lemon Bergamot Plant is susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and spider mites. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure the plant has good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. If the plant becomes infected, remove the affected leaves and treat with a fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
The Lemon Bergamot Plant is native to Texas and Mexico and found in other areas of the United States. It grows in prairies, meadows, and open areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lemon Bergamot Plant tolerate drought?
A: The plant can tolerate some drought but requires regular watering, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can the plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the Lemon Bergamot Plant can grow in containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and is filled with well-drained soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How long does it take for the plant to bloom?
A: The Lemon Bergamot Plant blooms in mid to late summer, usually taking about 70-90 days to bloom from seed.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Monarda genus include:
- Monarda Didyma (Bee Balm)
- Monarda Fistulosa (Wild Bergamot)
- Monarda Punctata (Spotted Bee Balm)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/lemon-mint/lemon-mint-plant.htm
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/herb/lemon-mint/
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k240
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MOCI4
