Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm looks and grows like mint, but without mints invasive tendencies. It has nettle-shaped leaves and a lush, bushy growth habit. Lemon balm is very hardy and will come back year after year, even after the most severe winter. Planted around orchards or fruit trees, Lemon balm with attract bees for pollination. Easy to grow and tolerant of most soils, it thrives in rich, moist ground in a sheltered, sunny position. Its wonderfully strong lemon flavour and aroma make this herb a treat in everything from salads to tea (steep a small handful of fresh leaves in boiled water, add sugar if required and enjoy its refreshing lemon flavour), adding a new dimension to poultry, fish, and pork and also used for fruit jellies, tarts and custard. Refer to Cultural Information Table for more information.