Lemon Balm
(Melissa officinalis)
500 seeds $3.00
HomeLemon balm is a popular heirloom herb. The bright green leaves have a refreshing lemon flavor that is perfect for tea. They can also be minced and added to salads and other dishes.
Lemon balm is a calming herb with mild sedative and antidepressant properties. It is recommended for healing the nervous system and fighting bacteria and viruses. See the Medical Medium website for recipes.
Harvest the leaves before the flowers appear, and dry upside down in bunches.
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family. The vigorous plants are easy to grow. The small white flowers attracts bees and beneficial insects. Cut it back after blooming to avoid self-sowing. Hardy in zones 4-9.
height 18" spacing 12"
Sowing Lemon Balm Seeds
Start lemon balm seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Or sow outdoors in spring. Barely cover the seeds with soil. Full sun to part shade.
