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lemon balm

lemon balm

Melissa officinalis

perennial⛅ part shade💧💧 moderate waterZone 3a – Zone 11b

A fragrant herbaceous perennial with lemon-scented leaves prized for culinary and medicinal uses. Produces delicate white or pale pink flowers and attracts pollinators to the garden.

Overview

Form
Mounding
Growth Rate
fast
Size
1.5–3′ tall × 1.5–3′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous

Tolerances & Soil

Zone 3aZone 11b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 3a to Zone 11b

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Harvest Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

Summer

Herb

Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.

Succession Role

early successional

Native Range

Mediterranean

Function & Care

ediblemedicinalpollinator nectarywildlife benefit

Edible Parts

leafflower

Establishment & Care

Establishment
easy
Maintenance
low
Years to Bearing
1 years
Propagation
seed, cutting, division

Companion Planting

Notable Cultivars

Aurea is prized for golden foliage and milder flavor, while All Gold offers even brighter yellow leaves; both are less vigorous than the green species type.