Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is a plant native to the eastern Mediterranean basin (Turkey) and found in all temperate climates on the planet. It exhales a sweet lemony scent when its leaves are crumpled. It is used in herbal tea, fresh or dried. The leaves, stems and flowers are the parts used. Lemon balm is a plant known since ancient Greece and used for its benefits against stress, insomnia and overwork. It is known to have antispasmodic, antiviral, digestive properties and effectiveness against anxiety.;Caution Lemon balm seeds require cold and moist stratification before being sown.
MAINTENANCE AND OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
Cut the flowers before they produce seed. This will prevent seed dispersal. Lemon balm can become invasive by spontaneous sowing. Sow indoors at the end of March. This plant requires cold stratification in moist sand at least 2 weeks before sowing.
Plant type: Perennial |
Quantity: Envelope of about 150 seeds |
Exposure: Half shade |
Shape: Bushy |
Soil: All types of soils |
Watering: Regular |
Sowing: Inside |
Plantation: In the garden after the risk of frost |
Days to maturity: 150 days |
Germination: 14 to 30 days |
Plant spacing: 60 cm |
Depth: On the surface |
Width: 60 cm |
Height: 60 cm to 80 cm |
Color: Green |
Family: Lamiaceae |
Use: Infusion and herbal tea |
Characteristic: Fragrant |