Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm is a bushy, upright herbaceous perennial, growing from a woody rootstock. It typically reaches a height of 2 feet and spreads up to 1.5 feet. The leaves are oval to heart-shaped, bright green, and have a crinkled, deeply veined texture with scalloped or toothed margins. They grow oppositely along square stems. When bruised, the leaves emit a strong lemony scent.
Learn more about Lemon Balm in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
Lemon balm prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained, average soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. It spreads readily by seed and rhizomes, so consider growing it in containers or in an area where its spread can be managed. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushiness and deadhead flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding. It can be harvested throughout the growing season, with the best flavor before flowering.