A perennial herb of the mint family, it is easily grown and self seeds freely growing to 70-150 cm. The leaves have a gentle lemon scent, related to mint. Small white flowers full of nectar attract bees, hence the genus name Melissa (Greek for 'honey bee'). Lemon balm is often used as a flavouring in ice cream and herbal teas, both hot and iced, often in combination with other herbs such as spearmint. It is also frequently paired with fruit dishes or candies. It can be used in fish dishes and is the key ingredient in lemon balm pesto.
Approx Height (10 yrs.)30-60 cm (12-24")
Soil TypeAll
Soil pHAcid, Neutral, Alkaline
AspectSun
HardinessHardy
Flowering TimeSummer
Coloured FoliageGold Foliage
Edible Leaves, Seed or BerriesEdible Leaves
Edible FlowersEdible Flowers
Plant TypeHerbs
