Lemon Balm

A nice lazy Sunday. It looks like Spring has finally arrived, and is managing to string together more than one sunny day at a time. Coffee and bacon sandwich, followed by gardening and a short walk along the lanes. 

There is an abundance of new growth now, and I took some pictures while I was out tinkering in the garden. Melissa officinalis, better known as lemon balm, is a fragrant perennial herb belonging to the mint family. Its bright green, oval leaves boast scalloped edges and release a refreshing lemony scent when crushed. During summer, the plant produces delicate white flowers.

Growing lemon balm is pretty straightforward. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade. You can either start seeds indoors during spring or simply transplant small plants outdoors after the last frost. Be mindful that lemon balm spreads quickly (and can bully adjacent plants into submission) so consider planting it in a pot or allotting ample space for it to roam in your garden.

Lemon balm's culinary uses are vast. Its leaves add a delightful lemony touch to various dishes, teas, salads, and even desserts. Beyond the kitchen, lemon balm holds traditional medicinal value. Its calming properties are often harnessed in teas to ease stress, improve sleep, and aid digestion.