lemon balm

Melissa officinalis

HerbLamiaceae

lemon balm
Deer-resistantRabbit-resistantDrought tolerantFragrantEdible
USDA zones3 to 7
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall1 to 3 feet wide
Growth rate
Rapid
Habit
Mounding
Bloom season
Summer, autumn
Bloom color
White
Foliage color
Green
Soil types
Sand, loam, clay, chalk
Soil pH
Acid, alkaline, neutral

Garden uses

BorderContainerCottage gardenFood gardenGround coverLow maintenancePollinator garden

Attracts

ButterfliesBees

Notes

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herb for borders, pollinator gardens, containers, and cottage gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry to average soil of most types. Deer and rabbits usually look elsewhere for a meal. It grows fast into a mounding clump with fragrant leaves and white summer flowers. Bees and butterflies visit the blooms.

Pairs well with Lavender, Sage, Chives, and Nasturtium.

Native range

Southern Europe.