Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae .Lemon Balm is a citrusy and fresh scented herb. It is very prolific and easily grown. It grows to 70–150 cm tall. The
leaves have a gentle lemon scent, related to mint. During summer, small white flowers full of nectar appear. These attract bees, hence
the genus name Melissa (Greek for 'honey bee').
Habitat:
Lemon balm is a garden plant, but its natural habitat is in the mountainous regions in southern Europe. Lemon balm is mostly seen cultivated, but in southern regions one sees it once in a while
in the wild in hedges and along roads. It thrives best in humus rich, moist and well-drained soils which are slightly acidic or slightly alkaline form the best soils for growing the lemon balm. The
plant tolerates a pH range from 4.5 to 7.6 and grows best between these ranges. It generally prefers exposure to full sunlight, but it also tends to grow well in partially shaded areas.
Edible Part:
The aerial parts (leaves) and the essential oil of the herb are the most commonly used parts of the plant for its commercial and medicinal applications.
Major areas in which it is found:
Due to transplantation for horticulture, the lemon balm is now found around the world and grows successfully in many places.
Flavor:
Lemon balm is usually grown for its mild lemon scent and flavor.
Scientific Classification:
| Kingdom |
: |
Plantae |
| (unranked) |
: |
Angiosperms |
| (unranked) |
: |
Eudicots |
| (unranked) |
: |
Asterids |
| Order |
: |
Lamiales |
| Family |
: |
Lamiaceae |
| Genus |
: |
Melissa |
| Species |
: |
M. officinalis |