Lemon balm is a spreading herb with a strong citrusy fragrance. It can be used for teas and cooking and is frequently used for essential oil. Gardeners should be aware that it can be aggressive and should be carefully contained.
Latin Name
Melissa officinalis
Family
Lamiaceae
Also Known As
Balm Common Balm Balm Mint
Type of Plant
Herbs
Perennials
Bloom Season
June - August
Seasons
Summer
Spring
Specifications
Max Height: 2'
Max Spread: 3'
Uses
Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun
Part Shade
Tolerances
Colors
Native Range
Southern Europe, Iran, Central Asia
History
Lemon balm was a valuable herb in the fledgling American colonies and was found in the medicinal gardens at Bethabara in 1761.
Other Details
Pollinator
Planted at Mount Vernon
Hardiness Zones
Average annual extreme minimum temperature 1976-2005
Bartlett Tree Expert Company has been working with Mount Vernon Estate since 2011 providing expert arboricultural care and GPS mapping for the estate’s historic trees, as well as support from their research facility. Mount Vernon is proud to partner with Bartlett Tree Experts and appreciates their sponsorship of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Plant Finder App.
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