Melissa officinalis (seeds)
The balm ( Melissa officinalis )
The balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial aromatic and medicinal plant.
It prefers a light rich moist soil sunny sheltered position.
The plant stems die at the beginning of winter, but germinate again spring. Melissa officinalis is a drought-resistant plant.
Melissa officinalis‘ leaves are green, oval, toothed, wrinkled, give off a pleasant lemon scent. Its’ flowers are white, bisexual appear from June until October and pollinated by bees.
Depending on the soil the plant is growing, foliage appears from yellow to dark green.
Caution! : Avoid during pregnancy.
Species ID
Family:
Lamiaceae
Genus:
Melissa
Species:
Melissa officinalis
Synonyms:
Faucibarba officinalis Mutelia officinalis Thymus melissa
Plant Characteristics
Circle of Life:
Perrenial
Plant Type:
- Bushwood
Flowering Period:
- August
- July
- September
Aroma:
Pleasant lemon fragrance
Height:
up to 70cm
Requirements
Soil Acidity:
In all types
Light Requirements:
Full Sun- Semi-Shade
Water Requirements:
Moderate
Pruning:
Yes, on the end of Winter
Toughness:
Dry-heat resistant
USDA Zones:
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
Propagation:
Seeds
Usage:
- Aromatic
- Bee plant
- Cuisine
- Herb