Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant perennial herb from the mint family, loved for its fresh lemon-scented leaves and gentle, calming qualities.
This versatile herb thrives in well-drained soil and sunny to partially shaded positions. It can be grown for herbal teas, culinary use, natural fragrance, ornamental value and pollinator-friendly planting.
A healthy live Lemon Balm seedling, ready to transplant into garden beds, herb gardens or containers.
Approx. 45–90 cm tall
Plant approx. 20 cm apart
Harvest throughout the growing season
Full sun to partial shade
Well-drained soil preferred
Tea, salads, desserts, syrups, oils and fragrance
Characteristics
It can produce small white flowers that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.
The genus name Melissa comes from the Greek word for honey bee, reflecting the plant’s strong connection with bees and honey production.
Culinary & Herbal Uses
Tea: Steep fresh or dried leaves for a soothing lemon-scented herbal tea.
Salads: Finely chop fresh leaves for a light citrus note.
Desserts: Use with fruit, cakes, puddings and sweet dishes.
Syrups & oils: Infuse into syrups, oils or vinegars for flavour and fragrance.
Herbal use: Traditionally used in calming herbal blends.
Success Checklist
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Plant in sun to partial shade | Supports strong leafy growth while tolerating mixed garden positions. |
| Use well-drained soil | Helps keep roots healthy and reduces waterlogging issues. |
| Space plants 20 cm apart | Allows airflow and room for spreading growth. |
| Harvest before flowering | Leaves are usually at their best flavour and potency just before flowering. |
| Prune regularly | Encourages fresh leafy growth and keeps plants tidy. |
| Grow near fruiting crops | Flowers attract bees, helping support pollination in the garden. |
Harvesting
Pick leaves just before flowering for the strongest flavour and aroma.
Use fresh leaves immediately, or dry them gently and store for later use in teas and herbal blends.
Companion Planting
Its fragrant foliage also adds sensory value to herb gardens, borders and containers.
Pest & Care Notes
Common issues: leggy growth from too much shade and root stress from poor drainage.
Best defence: well-drained soil, regular trimming, good airflow and moderate watering.
Harvest Lemon Balm leaves before flowering for the best lemon aroma. Trim regularly to keep plants bushy, fresh and productive.
We are a proudly Australian-owned family business dedicated to providing high-quality seedlings, seeds, fruit trees, native plants, and indoor ornamentals. We offer express shipping to SA, VIC, QLD, and NSW, with local delivery and pickups available by arrangement. Unfortunately, due to restrictions, we are unable to send to TAS, WA, or NT. For OH&S and biosecurity reasons, farm tours and direct purchases are not available, and pickups can only be made at our farm gate entrance. We deeply value our loyal customers and thank you for your continued support.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant perennial herb from the mint family, loved for its fresh lemon-scented leaves and gentle, calming qualities.
This versatile herb thrives in well-drained soil and sunny to partially shaded positions. It can be grown for herbal teas, culinary use, natural fragrance, ornamental value and pollinator-friendly planting.
A healthy live Lemon Balm seedling, ready to transplant into garden beds, herb gardens or containers.
Approx. 45–90 cm tall
Plant approx. 20 cm apart
Harvest throughout the growing season
Full sun to partial shade
Well-drained soil preferred
Tea, salads, desserts, syrups, oils and fragrance
Characteristics
It can produce small white flowers that attract bees and other beneficial pollinators.
The genus name Melissa comes from the Greek word for honey bee, reflecting the plant’s strong connection with bees and honey production.
Culinary & Herbal Uses
Tea: Steep fresh or dried leaves for a soothing lemon-scented herbal tea.
Salads: Finely chop fresh leaves for a light citrus note.
Desserts: Use with fruit, cakes, puddings and sweet dishes.
Syrups & oils: Infuse into syrups, oils or vinegars for flavour and fragrance.
Herbal use: Traditionally used in calming herbal blends.
Success Checklist
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Plant in sun to partial shade | Supports strong leafy growth while tolerating mixed garden positions. |
| Use well-drained soil | Helps keep roots healthy and reduces waterlogging issues. |
| Space plants 20 cm apart | Allows airflow and room for spreading growth. |
| Harvest before flowering | Leaves are usually at their best flavour and potency just before flowering. |
| Prune regularly | Encourages fresh leafy growth and keeps plants tidy. |
| Grow near fruiting crops | Flowers attract bees, helping support pollination in the garden. |
Harvesting
Pick leaves just before flowering for the strongest flavour and aroma.
Use fresh leaves immediately, or dry them gently and store for later use in teas and herbal blends.
Companion Planting
Its fragrant foliage also adds sensory value to herb gardens, borders and containers.
Pest & Care Notes
Common issues: leggy growth from too much shade and root stress from poor drainage.
Best defence: well-drained soil, regular trimming, good airflow and moderate watering.
Harvest Lemon Balm leaves before flowering for the best lemon aroma. Trim regularly to keep plants bushy, fresh and productive.
We are a proudly Australian-owned family business dedicated to providing high-quality seedlings, seeds, fruit trees, native plants, and indoor ornamentals. We offer express shipping to SA, VIC, QLD, and NSW, with local delivery and pickups available by arrangement. Unfortunately, due to restrictions, we are unable to send to TAS, WA, or NT. For OH&S and biosecurity reasons, farm tours and direct purchases are not available, and pickups can only be made at our farm gate entrance. We deeply value our loyal customers and thank you for your continued support.
Testimonials
QPS offers a wide selection of high-quality seedlings, including herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plants. They are known for their robust health and diverse variety, catering to all gardening preferences. With careful packaging and clear care instructions, Quality plants & seedlings ensures their plants arrive in good condition. They prioritise customer service and sustainability, making them a trusted choice for gardeners of all levels aiming to create thriving gardens.
Choosing QPS for my certified organic seeds was a game-changer for my garden. The variety of herbs, vegetables, and ornamental plants available exceeded my expectations, all grown with meticulous organic practices. The seeds arrived promptly and were clearly labeled with planting instructions, making the process smooth and stress-free. I've been impressed with the high germination rates and the healthy growth of the plants, reflecting QPS's commitment to quality. For anyone looking to start or expand an organic garden, QPS is my go-to choice for reliable, sustainable seeds.
Sourcing wholesale indoor plants from QPS has been a fantastic experience for my projects as a landscape designer. Their extensive selection of indoor plants is of exceptional quality, perfect for creating vibrant interior spaces. Each plant arrives well-packaged and in excellent condition, reflecting QPS's attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction. Their competitive wholesale pricing makes them a preferred supplier for large-scale projects. I highly recommend Quality Plants & Seedlings to fellow professionals and enthusiasts seeking reliable, top-notch indoor plants for their designs.
Choosing QPS for seedlings at our school has been a great decision. Their diverse range includes everything from vegetables to ornamental plants, all nurtured with care using organic practices. The seedlings arrived promptly and were well-packaged with clear instructions, making them easy for students to handle and plant. We've been pleased with the robust health and rapid growth of the plants, which has enhanced our educational gardening initiatives. QPS's commitment to quality and sustainability makes them an ideal choice for schools looking to cultivate a green thumb in students.
