Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
The Lemon Balm plant is characterized by its bright green, ovate, wrinkled leaves, which have a toothed margin. Its leaves are highly aromatic, especially when bruised, releasing a strong lemony scent. The plant has a bushy growth habit and produces small, inconspicuous white or pale pink flowers in clusters along the stem.
Learn more about Lemon Balm in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
Lemon Balm is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun exposure, ideally getting at least 5-6 hours of sunlight daily. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Pinch back stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. It can be grown in containers or in the ground and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Fertilize sparingly, as too much fertilizer can reduce the intensity of its aroma.