Melissa officinalis
TAXONOMY
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusMelissa
Zone4
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae. Native to Europe, it is known for its lemon-scented leaves and is often used in teas, cooking, and traditional medicine. The plant prefers temperate climates and can go dormant during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Balm
Lemon Balm
Faucibarba officinalis
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima
Melissa officinalis var. altissima
Melissa officinalis var. cordifolia
Melissa officinalis var. foliosa
Melissa officinalis var. graveolens
Melissa officinalis var. hirsuta
Melissa officinalis var. romana
Melissa officinalis var. villosa
Mutelia officinalis
Thymus melissa
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Lemon balm thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers bright, indirect light. It should be watered when the soil partially dries out, and it benefits from moderate humidity. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
Lemon balm prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-5. Fertilize the plant every few weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.Repotting
Repot lemon balm every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and refresh the soil to provide new nutrients.Propagation
Lemon balm can be propagated through seed, cuttings, or division. The best time to propagate is in the spring or early summer. For cuttings, take a healthy stem and root it in water or moist soil.Pruning
Prune lemon balm regularly to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and trim back the plant after flowering to prevent it from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Lemon balm is non-toxic to pets and humans. It is safe to grow in households with animals and children.Additional
Lemon balm can be used in a variety of culinary dishes and herbal remedies. It is known for its calming effects and is often used in teas to promote relaxation and reduce stress.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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