Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Lamiaceae · Perennial
Lemon balm is a cheerful perennial herb with crinkled, bright green leaves that release a delightful lemon scent when bruised. It's wonderful for teas, desserts, and as a garnish, also attracting bees to the garden.
- · Plant in a contained area as it can spread vigorously.
- · Keep soil consistently moist, especially in hot weather.
- · Cut back often to encourage fresh growth and prevent flowering.
Serving Ideas
Juiced and zested to brighten dressings, marinades, drinks and desserts; segments served fresh in salads.
Recommended: grow and source this plant without synthetic chemicals or pesticides, and rinse thoroughly before eating.
IMPORTANT: please verify food safety independently. Errors and omissions may occur.
At a glance
- Growing zones: 4-9
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Moderate
- Maintenance: Low
- Type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1.5-2.5 ft tall · 1.5-2.5 ft wide
- Bloom season: Summer · White
- Pollinator friendly: Yes
- Container suitable: Yes
- Cold tolerance: Hardy to -30F
- Heat tolerance: Good
- Soil: Moist, well-drained
- Growth rate: Fast
Buy Seeds · SeedsNow
Affiliate link — gardens.net earns a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.