Bergamot Seed

Indian tribes use wild Bergamot to treat colds and bronchial complaints.

The young leaves can be used to add a delicate citrus flavour to fish, chicken or omelette dishes whether used fresh or dried.

The pinky mauve flowers can be added to salads or dried (they keep their colour well) and used as a Winter decoration.

Leaves can be used to make a refreshing citrus flavoured tea or blend with good quality black tea (it is a good Earl Grey substitute and became popular in New England as a tea substitute after the Boston Tea Party in 1773!)

• Hardy perennial.
• Likes a sunny  or partial shade position.
• Likes rich, light, moist soil. 
• Flowers early Summer onwards.
• Reaches 2 - 3 feet (60 - 90 cm) high.
• Direct sow outside either thinly in rows or sparsely in clumps. 
• Lightly cover seed and keep moist. 
• Ensure the plants are always moist but never waterlogged.
• Mulch plants in hot dry spells to keep the roots moist and cool. 
• Great for bees and butterflies.

• Top Tips.
• Mulch plants in hot dry spells to keep the roots moist and cool. 
• Split the plants every couple of years but only replant the outer shoots of the original plant as the older inner parts tend to die off.