Lemon Balm Seeds
~50 Seeds
Lemon Balm is a fragrant, easygoing perennial herb prized for its fresh lemon scent and calming qualities.
If you’ve ever brushed past a Lemon Balm plant and wondered where that lovely citrusy aroma came from — this is it. With soft green leaves and a naturally bushy habit, Lemon Balm is a hardworking herb that earns its place in the garden and the teacup. The leaves are commonly harvested for herbal tea, where they produce a gentle lemon flavour that’s soothing and refreshing, hot or iced.
In the garden, Lemon Balm is a magnet for bees and beneficial insects, producing small white flowers that pollinators adore. It’s a fantastic choice for herb gardens, cottage gardens, or tucked into perennial beds where it can return reliably year after year. Once established, Lemon Balm is drought tolerant and forgiving, making it an excellent option for beginner gardeners or anyone who appreciates low-maintenance plants with multiple uses.
Regular harvesting encourages fresh, tender growth and keeps plants tidy. Leaves can be enjoyed fresh or dried for year-round tea use, making this a rewarding plant for gardeners who love practical, edible crops with a little old-fashioned charm.
- Attracts bees and beneficial pollinators
- Edible – commonly used for herbal tea
- Fragrant foliage filler
- Medicinal herb
- Perennial and low maintenance
Plant Details
- Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis
- Life Cycle: Perennial (Hardy in zones 4–9)
- Seed Type: Open Pollinated
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Plant Height: 18–24 in / 45–60 cm
- Seed Depth: Surface sow or lightly cover
- Spacing: 12–18 in / 30–45 cm
- Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer
- Days to Maturity: 70–90 days
- Edible / Toxic: Yes – edible
- Germination: 7–14 days at 18–21°C
Growing Instructions
Sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow after frost danger has passed. Press seeds gently into the soil and keep evenly moist until germination. Transplant or thin seedlings to proper spacing once established. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth. Cut back plants after flowering for a fresh flush of leaves.
FAQ
Q: Can Lemon Balm be grown in containers?
A: Yes! Lemon Balm grows very well in containers, which can also help manage its vigorous growth habit. It may not come back the following year if you live in a colder climate.
Q: When is the best time to harvest Lemon Balm for tea?
A: Harvest leaves just before flowering for the strongest flavour, or anytime during the growing season for fresh use.
