Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

Description

Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

Great for Pollinators!

A perennial herb native to the Mediterranean, with a wonderfully gentle lemon scent in the mint family.  Lemon Balm has a nice green rounded shape with medium textured leaves.  In warm zones the plant will remain green throughout the year.  In cooler zones the stems will die back during the winter months and re-grow again when temperatures rise. The clump will increase in size and will re-seed profusely. When the plant becomes leggy, cutting back the stems to a few inches will rejuvenate the plant. The inconspicuous but fragrant, nectar rich white flowers will attract native and honey bees.  Dead head to prevent self sowing.  Lemon Balm is often used as flavoring in ice cream and lemon balm pesto and in herbal teas.  Use the fresh leaves in chicken or fish dishes as well as with fruit and fruit juices.  Just snip branches off as needed.  Plant in full sun or part shade and keep moist.  Seeds germinate best at 70 degrees F. Plants should be planted about 24 inches apart.  

Color:  White
Height: 24-48 inches
Type:  Perennial
Climate:  Sun/Part Shade-Dry/Medium Moisture
Seeds/lb.: 700,000
Bloom time:  Late Spring – Summer
Zone:  4a – 7b

Germination: 7-21 days