Common Name: Lemon balm
Genus: Melissa
Species: officinalis
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Dry, Sandy
Height: 90cm
Spread: 45cm
Time to plant seeds: March to May
Time to divide plants: April to May
Flowering period:
June
to
October
An easily grown perennial herb, this is noted for the memorable and invigorating lemon fragrance of its leaves, used in cold drinks, teas and in salads or puddings. The flavour decreases as plants flower, and they lose their fresh, lush appearance, but bees and other pollinating insects are attracted to them and that's why the alternative name for this plant is bee balm. It is a good idea, then, to leave a few to bloom and to cut others back to maintain a supply of young foliage. Regularly trimming gold forms will preserve their bright, fresh appearance and prevent any all-green shoots from taking over.
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