Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)
Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)
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Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) is a fragrant, perennial herb valued for its refreshing lemon-scented foliage and gentle, calming properties. Its soft, bright green leaves form a lush, bushy plant that adds texture and vibrancy to herb gardens, borders, and container plantings. Traditionally used in herbal teas, infusions, and natural remedies, Lemon Balm is well known for its soothing qualities and is often enjoyed to help promote relaxation and support overall wellbeing.
Easy to grow and highly adaptable, Lemon Balm thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It is a fast-growing herb that can be harvested regularly, encouraging fresh new growth throughout the season. Ideal for kitchen gardens, sensory spaces, and herbal collections, Melissa Officinalis is a reliable and rewarding plant that combines ornamental appeal with everyday practical use in the home garden.
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Mature height
30cm – 80cm
Mature width
40cm – 70cm (can spread more in ideal conditions)
Spacing
40cm – 60cm apart
Evergreen/Deciduous
Herbaceous Perennial (may die back in colder climates)
Foliage
Soft, bright green, slightly crinkled aromatic leaves with a strong lemon scent when crushed
Flowering Period & Fruit Development/Harvest
Produces small pale white to light yellow flowers in summer; leaves can be harvested continuously from spring through autumn for tea and culinary use
Sun tolerance
Prefers full sun to part shade; best growth in cooler, sheltered positions in hot climates
Maintenance
Low maintenance; benefits from regular harvesting and pruning to prevent legginess and encourage dense growth; may self-seed if flowers are not removed
Root System
Vigorous, spreading fibrous root system that can form clumps and spread readily in suitable conditions