Lemon Balm

Easy growing perennial herb with a lovely lemony scent and flavour.
Can be used  in teas, cooked with fish or added to salads. 
 
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a delightful herb prized for its lemon-scented foliage, versatile uses, and numerous health benefits. With its refreshing aroma and delicate flavor, lemon balm is a popular choice for home cooks, herbal enthusiasts, and eco-conscious gardeners alike.
 
Culinary Use:
Lemon balm's bright, citrusy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. Its fresh leaves can be chopped and added to salads, soups, and sauces to impart a subtle lemony essence. The aromatic foliage also lends itself well to herbal teas, lemonades, and cocktails, infusing beverages with a refreshing twist. Lemon balm's versatility extends to desserts, where it can be used to flavor sorbets, custards, and baked goods. Whether used as a garnish or a key ingredient, lemon balm adds a touch of brightness to any culinary creation.
 
Tip: When preparing Balm tea, keep your cup covered to stop the herb's essential oils evaporating away in the steam
 
Planting and Harvesting:
Lemon balm is a hardy perennial herb that thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade. Excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. When planting lemon balm, provide adequate spacing between plants to allow for optimal growth. Regular harvesting of the leaves encourages bushy growth and ensures a continuous supply of fresh foliage throughout the growing season. To harvest lemon balm, simply snip off individual leaves or stems as needed, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.
 
Medicinal Use:
Lemon balm has a long history of medicinal use for promoting relaxation, relieving stress, and supporting overall well-being. Its calming properties make it a popular ingredient in herbal teas and tinctures used to alleviate anxiety and promote restful sleep. Lemon balm is also valued for its digestive benefits, helping to soothe indigestion, bloating, and nausea. Additionally, its antiviral and immune-boosting properties make it a valuable ally during cold and flu season. Whether enjoyed as a soothing tea or incorporated into herbal remedies, lemon balm offers a natural way to support health and vitality.
 
Ecological Benefits:
Lemon balm is highly attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, with its fragrant flowers and abundant nectar. By planting lemon balm in the garden, you can help support pollinator populations and promote biodiversity in the area. Bees, in particular, are drawn to the sweet scent of lemon balm flowers and rely on them for food and nectar. In addition to its value as a pollinator plant, lemon balm also provides habitat and food for various beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests. The dense foliage and aromatic scent of lemon balm offer shelter and protection for insects and small animals, contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.. 
 
Genus: Melissa officinalis
Aspect: Full Sun / Part shade
Type: Perennial
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 0.5 metres
Spread: 0.5 metres