Lemon balm is a lemon-scented member of the mint family. A native to southern Europe, it is a perennial that will over-winter in hardiness zones 4 to 5. The plant develops many branches and grows to a height of about 2ft.(60c,) The leaves are 2 to 3 in. (4.5- 7cm) long, oval to almost heart shaped, shiny and wrinkled with scalloped edges. Small light blue to white flowers appear in late spring through midsummer.

Ideal Location-. When choosing a site, keep in mind that lemon balm self-sows freely, spreads rapidly and can quickly become a weed. As with all members of the mint family, lemon balm should be grown in containers dug into the ground, as this herb will quickly over take your whole garden. Lemon balm can be grown indoors or in containers,

Cultivation- Lemon balm is easy to grow from seed sown in the spring or early fall. The seed is very small and should be covered with only a fine layer of soil. Cuttings and root divisions, however, are faster and easier ways to establish lemon balm. Stem cuttings can be made from the vigorous summer growth or the roots can be divided in the spring or fall.

Root cuttings should contain three to four buds each. In the fall, plant root cuttings early enough for the plants to become established before the first frost and mulch for the winter. Suggested spacing is 12 - 24 in, 30-60cm( apart in the row and 24 in (60 cm), or whatever distance is practical for cultivation, between the rows. Close spacing of rows and individual plants will result in the highest yields.

 

Lemon balm grows best in fertile, moist soil with a pH of 5 to 7.5. It prefers a cool, partially shaded habitat but will grow in full sun. Plants grown in shade, however, tend to be larger and more succulent than those grown in direct sunlight. In regions where the ground freezes, the crowns should be mulched for the winter.
 

Uses- Lemon balm, with its delicate lemon scent and flavor, is valued as a culinary, cosmetic and medicinal herb. Fresh sprigs are used to top drinks and as garnishes on salads and main dishes. Fresh or dried leaves make a refreshing tea, either iced or hot. Dried leaves are used as an ingredient in many pot-pouris and the oil is used in perfume. Used throughout history as a medicinal herb, lemon balm has mild sedative properties and has been used to relieve gas, reduce fever, and increase perspiration. The volatile oil contains citral, citronellal, eugenol acetate and geraniol. Both oil and hot water extracts of the leaves have been shown to possess strong antibacterial and antiviral qualities.