Overview
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Melissa, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Lemon balm is a perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family. It has lemon-scented leaves, white or pale pink flowers, and contains essential oils and compounds, such as geranial and neral.
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)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melissa
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial, Herbs - Culinary
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima
- Propagation
- Seed, Division in spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- Sage leafhopper
- Disease resistance
- Verticillium wilt
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima?
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima need?
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima hardy in the UK?
Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima?
Seed, Division in spring or autumn.
