Also known as: Balm mint, Balm, Balm Leaf, Honey Plant, Dropsywort
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herbaceous perennial famous for its essential oils and mild scent. Its oils and extracts are widely used in perfume and beauty products, as well as household cleaning products. Lemon balm can be cultivated as an ornamental plant that also attracts honeybees. It has been grown and cultivated by humans since at least the 16th century.
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Perennial, Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Bloom Time
Late spring
Harvest Time
30 cm to 1.5 m
Plant Height
40 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
1.2 cm to 1.3 cm
Flower Size
Brown
Fruit Color
White, Purple
Flower Color
Green, Brown
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer, Fall
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate
On This Page
Images
Distribution
Culture
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of Lemon balm
Distribution of Lemon balm
Distribution Map
Lemon balm is native to the Mediterranean, northern Africa, and some parts of the Middle East. Because of popular cultivation, it has been widely naturalized in parts of Europe and North and South America. It grows in bright areas with rich and moist soils.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Waste places, derelict land near human habitations
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Flowering
Fruiting
Culture
Garden Use
Lemon balm is an unusual garden plant that is grown mainly for its aromatic leaves. This is a fast-growing plant that loves to spread, so it's a good idea to confine it to a container. However, it also makes a great addition to beds and borders, and cottage or informal gardens. Grow lemon balm with pest-repelling partners such as asters, sunflowers, lavender, or marigolds.
Symbolism
Longevity, Purification, Love, virtue, compassion
Interesting Facts
The lemon balm plant has been used for culinary and aromatic purposes for thousands of years. In addition to the plant's use in tea and cooking, its oil is used in candles, perfumes, and aromatherapy blends.
Name Story
Lemon balm: Not only that the leaves look identical to mint, but also that the leaves release a light lemon scent similar to mint. As the leaves produce an extract that can be manufactured into essential oils for medical purposes, it is called lemon balm.
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Quickly Identify Lemon balm
1
Distinct lemony aroma from leaves, characteristic of the mint family.
2
Square stems and opposite leaf arrangement, typical traits of the mint family.
3
Tiny, tubular two-lipped flowers appearing creamy white or light purple.
4
Nutlets in clusters, dry schizocarps with four one-seeded mericarps.
5
Broadly ovate leaves up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long with crenate margins.
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Water:
Lemon balm thrives in moist soil and prefers consistent moisture, similar to its Mediterranean origins. It is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from weekly watering. Outdoor cultivation enhances its aromatic leaves, and mulching helps retain moisture, reducing watering frequency.
Fertilize:
For vibrant growth, lemon balm needs balanced nutrition with a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer applied bi-monthly during the growing season. Use half the recommended dose initially to protect roots. Reduce fertilization in dormancy and adjust as lemon balm matures, monitoring its response for optimal vigor.
Pruning:
Lemon balm, a fragrant herb used medicinally and culinarily, thrives with regular pruning. Trim stems to encourage bushier growth and remove dead foliage, ideally from early to late spring. This practice boosts airflow, reduces disease risk, prevents legginess, and supports vigorous health and frequent harvests.
Propagation:
Lemon balm is best propagated in Spring via sowing and has a moderate difficulty level. Successful propagation is indicated by new growth and healthy leaves. For optimal results, ensure well-draining soil and consistent moisture.
Repotting:
Lemon balm should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot to support its bushy growth. Use well-draining soil and maintain regular watering until roots establish. Bright light and pruning prevent legginess, enhancing the aromatic leaves during its rapid growth phase.
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