Lemon balm
Melissa officinalis · Family Lamiaceae
Also known as: balm, melissa, sweet balm
- Light
- Bright indirect to full sun
- Watering
- Every 3 days
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pet-safe
- No, keep it away from cats and dogs
Care
Where to put it
A bright windowsill or patio pot; it self-seeds freely.
Light
Bright light to full sun. Tolerates a little shade.
Watering
Keep the compost lightly moist, especially in warm weather.
About the plant
Lemon balm has lemon-scented leaves widely used in calming teas. It is perennial, grows in clumps and regrows well after picking. It does well in medium pots.
Origin
Native to southern Europe, the Mediterranean and western Asia, on woodland edges and in fields.
What it likes
- Strong light, with morning sun
- Moist, fertile compost
- Regular picking
What it dislikes
- Compost dry for long periods
- Scorching afternoon sun
- Waterlogging
Did you know?
Melissa means 'bee' in Greek, as its flowers attract lots of bees.
