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Lemon Balm
Melissa Officinalis
18 - 24" (46 -61 cm)
24 - 36" (61 - 91 cm)
4-12
Perennial
Sun To Partial Shade
Allow Soil To Dry Between Watering
Light, Sandy Soil With Excellent Drainage
Lemon Balm is a delightful and versatile herb admired for its refreshing lemon-scented foliage. Originating from the Mediterranean region and Central Asia, this perennial herb is a member of the mint family.
Lemon Balm is characterized by its lush, bright green, oval-shaped leaves that emit a delightful citrusy fragrance when brushed or crushed. The leaves have a mild lemon flavor, imparting a subtle citrus essence to dishes and beverages. Growing in bushy clumps, and producing small clusters of inconspicuous white flowers during the summer.
Culinarily, Lemon Balm's aromatic leaves are used to flavor a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, teas, cocktails, fruit salads, and desserts, offering a mild lemony tang. It is also a popular ingredient in herbal infusions or homemade herbal blends due to its pleasant flavor and calming properties.