Balm, Lemon - Melissa officinalis
Type: Perennial
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), not to be confused with bee balm which is a Monarda species, is a perennial herb that is part of the mint family. Originally from southern Europe and the Mediterannean region, it grows up to 70–150 cm tall, bearing leaves that have a gentle lemon scent.
Lemon Balm will tolerate most soil types, but prefer moists well-drained sites if possible.
During the summer months it produces small creamy-white or pale purple flower spikes that are full of nectar, which attract bees, hence the genus name Melissa (Greek for 'honey bee').
A gorgeous lemon-scented herb, and an extremely robust grower, it can be a bully in the garden if left to its own devices. Lemon Balm has many uses, and as a culinary herb it is steeped to make teas, flavours ice-creams and is also used as a herb for stuffing poultry. The addition of lemon balm will add a lemony zing to cooking in general, and it is a useful product to grow in the herb garden. Other uses are medicinal e.g. the leaves can be crushed and rubbed onto the skin to repel insects.
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| Size | Unit Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 litre | £4.50 | |
| 9cm | £2.50 |
