Wild bergamot (or beebalm) is a garden classic; you've undoubtedly seen many cultivars in nurseries. Our local variety is perfectly equipped to handle Missoula's climate and provide food for a wide array of native insects. The foliage has a spicy mint-like taste and can be made into tea (or just chew a few leaves for instant refreshment). Plant in locations that get at least a half day of sun. Shaded plants (especially ones that don't get watered deeply enough) are prone to powdery mildew. Plant with small-flower penstemon, yarrow, prairie smoke, alumroot, and pussytoes.