Herb – Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

Description

Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis) is a fragrant bushy plant of a similar habit to mint, in that it can be invasive if not contained. It has a strong lemon flavour and the leaves can be used lavishly for many cooked dishes such as soups, stews, stuffings, in a sauce for fish or meat and in salads or use to make a refreshing tea or summer drink by adding the fresh leaves to lemonade or sparkling water.
This herb grows to about 1m tall and 70cm wide, and prefers full sun. The flowers help to attract bees.

Hardy Perennial herb.
Herb seeds by Suffolk Herbs
Pack size: 600 Seeds

Additional Details

Where to Sow Lemon Balm Seeds
Sow Outside in spring, in drills keeping watered if dry. Germination may be erratic. Thin out or transplant when large enough to handle. Grow in good soil, preferably in a sunny position.

Harvest
Fresh leaves for drying at any time. Pick young leaves before the sun gets too hot.

Handy Tip
Lemon balm can be used to make a simple salad dressing for fresh spring greens. Mix 12 lemon balm leaves with 1/3 of a cup of olive oil, 3 tbsp of rice wine vinegar and salt & pepper.