lemonbalm

Lemon Balm

(Melissa officianalis)

A hardy perennial that grows to 4ft (1.2m). It has deep green leaves and smells strongly of lemon. It will grow in most types of soil but prefers a sunny position. Sow seeds in spring or take root cuttings in spring or autumn. The roots are extremely invasive so it is best grown in some form of container.

Harvesting

Pick fresh leaves as required. Stems can be cut at the end of summer and hung to dry for storing.

Uses

The lemon flavour compliments stewed fruit, fish and poultry. The dried leaves can be used to make a tisane.