Description

Seed Savers Exchange

Herb, Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

• Perennial in zones 4-9
• Plants grow to 20-50 inches tall
• Leaves have a strong scent of lemon
• Packet of 250 Seeds

(Melissa officinalis) A favorite of French King Charles V in the 14th century. Strong lemon-scented leaves are used for making tea. Said to have a calming effect and is also soothing for upset stomachs. Perennial in zones 4-9.

Learn To Grow It

You can sow seeds indoors or directly into the soil in mild areas starting around mid-spring.

Space your plants or seeds 6-8 inches apart in well fertilized soil. Plant your seeds 1/4-3/4 in. deep.

This is a “cut-and-come-again” plant so you can harvest leaves as they mature. Keep the leaves well watered and cool. 

Mulching the soil around this crop can help protect the plant and keep roots cool and moist. In frost-free zones, this crop can be grow throughout the fall and winter.