# Uses of Bergamot Flowers
Bergamot (Monarda didyma), with its square stems, is a perennial flower in the same family as mint. Its flowers bloom from June to September. An American herb, bergamot was used by the Oswego Indians, who introduced it to the European colonists.
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Tea
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After the Boston Tea Party, Oswego tea, made from bergamot, was used as a common substitute for black tea. You can make Oswego tea by steeping bergamot leaves (6 fresh or 1 teaspoon dried) in 1 cup hot water.
Edible Flowers
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Bergamot flowers may be used in salads or eaten plain. The pink- or scarlet-petal flowers are recommended for eating.
Garden
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Bergamot flowers are excellent at attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. The magenta color appeals to them.
Potpourri
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The fragrant flowers and foliage of the bergamot plant can be dried and used in potpourri.
Misconceptions
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Bergamot flowers are not used in Earl Grey tea, which is flavored with oil extracted from the bergamot orange.
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Herb Basics
