Herbs · Everyday herb

Lemon balm

Melissa officinalis · also called Melissa, Bee balm (old name) · planet: Jupiter

A soft, bright green mint-family herb with a clear lemon scent and small flowers that draw honeybees.

In the garden

Sun to part shade, moist soil. It self-seeds and spreads, so cut it back before it sets seed.

In the kitchen

Steep fresh leaves for tea, or tear them into fruit salad, fish and summer drinks.

Take care

• Food and tea amounts are fine.
• If you take thyroid medicines or sedatives, ask a pharmacist before using it regularly.
• Traditionally avoided in larger amounts during pregnancy.

Folklore and garden information only, not medical advice. Do not eat or use any plant unless you are certain what it is and that it is safe for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medicine, or choosing for children or pets.

Where to buy

Dried herb

• Mountain Rose Herbs Organic dried herbs and botanicals.
• Starwest Botanicals Bulk dried herbs, spices and teas.

Seeds

• Botanical Interests Seed packets for herb and flower gardens.
• Burpee Seeds and young plants.
• Park Seed Seeds and live plants. Search for the herb once you are on their site.

Live plants

• Burpee Seeds and young plants.
• Park Seed Seeds and live plants. Search for the herb once you are on their site.

These links go to the seller websites themselves. We are not paid for them.