Melissa officinalis Lemon balm (Labiatae)

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Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm
(1 Page of 5)

The Melissa officinalis plant species is found in C. and S. Europe, W. Asia and N. Africa. Naturalized in Britain. It is a member of the Labiatae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Lemon balm.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Melissa officinalis
Common Name:  Lemon balm
Family:  Labiatae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.7   Mature Width:  0.4

Habitat:  Waste places and derelict land near human habitations[9].

Cultivation Notes: A very easily grown plant, it succeeds in any well-drained soil in a sunny sheltered position[200]. It prefers a light rich moist soil[37, 52],a warm position[27, 37] and partial shade[4]. Once established,this is a drought tolerant species[190, 200], it is a useful plant to try in difficult dry places[187], usually succeeding in the dustiest of soils once it is established[190]. Lemon balm is often grown in the herb garden, and sometimes also commercially[46], there are some named varieties[183]. Plants can often self-sow so freely as to become a menace[187]. If the plants are cut back hard after flowering, they will produce a fresh flush of leaves[238]. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[233]. A good bee plant[4, 8, 24]. A good companion plant, especially for brassicas[14].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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