Crushed leaves give off a bright lemon-mint scent the bees flock to — soothing in teas and good in summer drinks. Vigorous and self-seeding, so trim before it sets seed.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 70 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Lemon Balm
Botanically, Melissa officinalis is an fast-growing edible plant in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall at maturity, with aromatic foliage.
Where to grow Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Lemon Balm provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Lemon Balm is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Lemon Balm in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Lemon Balm in the garden
Lemon Balm earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers, feeding bees and pollinators and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Lemon Balm with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Lemon Balm
Plant Sale lists Lemon Balm as potted plants and seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Lemon Balm seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.