Melissa officinalis
Lemon Balm is defintely a favourite herb. A perennial that will come back year after year, quite vigorous so maybe best grown in a container. Hairy, green leaves have the most gorgeous, lemon scent when crushed, above which appears small white flowers during summer. It will die back during winter but if like me, you will be waiting patiently come spring for the leaves to re-appear. I have a lemon balm tea most days. It is known for its calming and soothing properties.
Common Name
Lemon Balm, Common Blam
Cultivation
Lemon Balm is a really easy herb to grow if given a sunny spot and will tolerate part shade, which it gets in my garden and thrives in mid afternoon to late evening sun. It will perform better if not allowed to dry out too much, so water well during dry spells, especially if growing it in a pot. It will self seed easily, I now have a crop under my Acer but you can stop this if you cut off the flowers once they are over. Cut back early winter once the leaves are over. Cutting back throughout the year will promote fresh leaves.
Height and Spread
0.6 x 1.0m
Additional Information
Great medicinal herb, used in herbal teas, perfumes, baths etc.
The bees love it as much as I do