Lemon Balm 'Melissa'

Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis

Common Name: Lemon Balm

Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Height: Up to 1 meter (3.3 feet)

Width: Approximately 0.5 meters (1.6 feet)

Spacing: 30–45 cm (12–18 inches)

Attracts: Bees

Flavour: Mild lemon scent and flavor

Use: Used in teas, culinary dishes, and traditional medicine

Plant Habit: Bushy, upright

Harvest: Leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season; best used fresh

Companion Plants: Basil, rosemary, and sage

General Information: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family, native to Europe, the Mediterranean, and Asia. It is cherished for its aromatic, lemon-scented leaves, which are utilized in various culinary applications, such as flavoring teas, salads, and desserts. The leaves also have a history of use in traditional medicine, believed to have calming properties that may help reduce stress and improve sleep quality. In temperate regions, lemon balm is typically grown as an annual or in pots that can be moved indoors during colder months, as it is sensitive to frost.