The flowers of bergamot, in size, color and form, are amongst the showiest of all herb blossoms. There are several different shades varying from pink and mauve to a rich red, which is the popular Cambridge Scarlet. Bergamot’s slightly hairy leaves are oval approximately 3 inches (8 cm) long and are attached in pairs to square stems. The pompom-type flowers start blooming on 3 feet (90 cm) tall stalks in early summer. If the plants are in the right position, where the roots are shaded and there is morning sun for several hours, flowers will bloom right through to the middle of autumn (fall). The whole plant is fragrantly scented and the tubular flower petals are full of nectar, making them a magnet for bees. For this reason, bergamot is often called “bee balm.” Money-eating birds are also attracted to the blossoms. Tike mint, which is a member of the same family, bergamot has a matted, spreading root system and does not start shooting upward until spring.
History and mythology
Bergamot is native to North America and received its botanical name from the 16th-century Spanish physician, Nicholas Monardez, who first discovered and described it. The leaves, which contain the essential oil thymol, were widely used in an infusion by the Oswego Indians. The herb soon became known to the early American settlers, who called it Oswego Tea, a name which is still popular today. Oil of bergamot, a fragrant essence, does not come from this plant, but from a citrus tree, the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia). The aromas are similar.
Cultivation
A dressing of well-decayed humus may be applied in spring when the plant begins to shoot upward. Grass cuttings should be sprinkled over the roots during the hottest part of summer. Bergamot may be grown in clumps as background plants in herb gardens, or in decorative clusters in standard garden beds, the lovely, plush red pincushion blooms making splashes of vivid color. Ours grows in a faraway bed set in a green sward surrounded by a glade of leafy trees. When in bloom, the scarlet flashes draw one from a distance to investigate and admire. A flower is always picked and the honeysuckle-petals tasted for their sweetness. If necessary, lightly tie the slender and rather brittle stems to garden stakes.
Propagation by root division can be done throughout the year. However, the best time is m early spring, when new growth is beginning. The seeds, which are very small, can be sown in a prepared box in spring and planted out when big enough to handle, leaving 6 inches (15 cm) between plants. The fact that bergamot likes to grow in a shady position, where the roots can be kept cool and moist, also encourages snails, so be prepared for this by laying a suitable bait nearby, especially when the soft leaves are young. After the plants have finished flowering, cut stalks back to ground level.
Harvesting and processing
For drying, harvest both foliage and flowers in late summer when the plant is in full bloom and dry them as quickly as possible. Do this by picking the leaves and blooms from the stems and spreading them out on a wire rack in a shady place. When they are dry, store them in airtight containers. Fresh bergamot leaves may be chopped finely, mixed with a little water, and frozen in ice cube trays to be used when needed. The flowers may be frozen whole by carefully putting them one by one in an ice cube tray, then gently covering them with water.
Various uses
Culinary
Bergamot leaves go into salads, teas, and cooling summer beverages. Their savory yet fruity aroma enhances such widely differing foods as vegetables and sweet jellies. They combine well with pork and veal. Fresh or dried, they may be used instead of mint leaves for a change. The flowers can be gently torn apart and added to a tossed green salad.
Medicinal
A herb tea made from bergamot leaves was taken by the Indians and early Americans as a remedy for sore throats, colds, and chest complaints.
Cosmetic
Fresh or dried bergamot in a hot bath is revitalizing and perfumes the water. An essential oil is made from this plant, both for incense and as a bath oil. The dried flowers and leaves make a fragrant addition to potpourri.
Companion planting
Bergamot’s attraction for bees makes it an excellent plant to grow near the vegetable garden and in the orchard.
