Overview
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Melissa, part of the Lamiaceae family. It typically grows around 0.7 m tall. Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include herb garden, ground cover and container planting. It is native to Europe and Central Asia.
About the genus
Melissa is a genus of perennial herbs in the family Lamiaceae. Its species are native to Europe and Asia but cultivated and naturalized in many other places. The name Melissa is derived from the Greek word μέλισσα (mélissa) meaning "honeybee", owing to the abundance of nectar in the flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, "Melissa (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Melissa (plant)
In the garden
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' is a herbaceous perennial native to Europe and Central Asia, grown for its strongly lemon-scented foliage and summer flowers. It reaches around 0.7 m and carries blooms from June to September; the species typically bears white or pale pink flowers. Position plants in full sun to partial shade on sandy or loamy soil that remains moist but drains freely; avoid waterlogged ground. The cultivar is fully hardy (H7) in UK conditions, so established plants tolerate winter outdoors. In warmer climates it also does well in sunny, well-drained borders. Scale and scent make 'Aurea' useful across the garden: group several plants in an herb bed, let it form a low ground cover between paths, or grow it in containers where the lemon fragrance can be enjoyed close to doors and windows. Its compact 0.7 m stature suits edging and small beds, and containers keep plants within easy reach for culinary use.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melissa
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Height
- 0.7 m
- Suggested uses
- Herb garden, ground cover, container planting
- Native to
- Europe, Central Asia
- Fragrance
- Lemon-scented leaves
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melissa officinalis 'Aurea'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil, regular watering, avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
- Propagation
- By seed, cuttings, or division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Melissa officinalis 'Aurea'?
Prefers well-drained soil, regular watering, avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Melissa officinalis 'Aurea'?
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' prefers full sun. It suits full sun to partial shade positions.
What soil does Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' need?
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Melissa officinalis 'Aurea'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
How big does Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' grow?
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' reaches a height of 0.7 m.
Is Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' hardy in the UK?
Melissa officinalis 'Aurea' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Melissa officinalis 'Aurea'?
By seed, cuttings, or division.
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