Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) — Fragrant Culinary Herb

Description

Lemon balm is a soft, leafy herb with a fresh lemon scent. Brush the leaves and the scent comes out at once. It is easy to grow in beds or pots.

The leaves are useful in tea, cold drinks, fruit, and simple meals. The small summer flowers also draw bees to the garden.

How to Grow Lemon Balm

Give lemon balm sun or light shade. In hot areas, some shade late in the day can help. Use soil that drains well. Water when the soil starts to dry.

Trim the plant often to keep it full and neat. It may spread by seed, so cut off old blooms if you want more control. Lemon balm can return each year in many gardens.

Ways to Use It

Use fresh leaves in tea, water, lemonade, fruit, fish, or chicken. For a wider herb garden, pair it with Prospera Italian Large Leaf basil or Noga Prospera basil. You can also start several herbs at once with our 7 young starter herb plugs.

Lemon Balm at a Glance

• Botanical name: Melissa officinalis
• Plant type: Perennial herb
• Light: Sun to part shade
• Water: Moderate
• Soil: Well drained
• Height: About 18 to 24 inches
• Main use: Tea, drinks, food, and fragrance