Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis, can be found growing in sandy, scrubby places in southern Europe, where it is native, as well as herb gardens across the United States.

It is said that a honeybee will not leave your garden until it has visited this plant. Actually, it gets it's Greek name melissa, or bee, from the fact that the honeybee is attracted to the flower.

This herb is easy to grow from seed and reseeds readily in gardens. Sew the seeds early for transplanting or sew them directly into the soil.

You will defiantly want this herb in your garden. Combined with lemon verbena makes a wonderful tea.

Growth Form: Herbaceous perennial usually reaching 3 feet (91 cm) tall.

Hardiness: Hardy to Zone 5.

Light: Full Sun

Water: Moist but not constantly wet.

Propagation Divisions or seeds in spring.

Culinary Use Teas, cookies, breads.

Craft Potpourri and soaps.

Landscape Use Mid-border.