LEMON BALM

[ Melissa Officinalis ]

[ Melissa Odorata ]
 

Season: Perennial
Height: 2 Feet
Bloom Season: Summer/Fall
Environment: Full Sun/Partial Sun/Dry/Moist, but Well Drained
Zones: 3 - 9

Lemon Balm [ Melissa Odorata ] [ Melissa Officinalis ] is a traditional herbal medicine, which enjoys contemporary usage as a mild sedative, spasmolytic and antibacterial agent. The root-stock is short, the stem square and branching, grows 1 to 2 feet high, and has at each joint pairs of broadly ovate or heart-shaped, crenate or toothed leaves which emit a fragrant lemon odor when bruised. They also have a distinct lemon taste. The flowers, white or yellowish, are in loose, small bunches from the axils of the leaves and bloom from June to October. The plant dies down in winter, but the root is perennial

Lemon Balm [ Melissa Odorata ] [ Melissa Officinalis ] has a great affinity for fresh fruits, especially apples; thus, it is sometimes found in apple-based desserts. Balm can also be used to flavor other fruits, fruit salads or fruit-based desserts. One of the lemon balm's most popular uses is in soothing herbal teas, where its lemon-scented volatile oils are released. The dried leaves are also a perfect ingredient for potpourri and dream pillows.

The plant is attractive for bees and butterflies.

The plant is fragrant.

PLANTING

Sow Inside: 6 weeks before last frost
Sow Outside: Spring after last frost/Late Fall
Seed Depth: 1/8 Inch
Days to Emerge: 12 to 21

LEMON BALM  Melissa Odorata  Melissa Officinalis  Seeds