About
Melittis melissophyllum, the bastard balm, is a strongly aromatic, herbaceous perennial to 60 cm forming a clump of upright, square stems with softly hairy, wrinkled, opposite leaves. In late spring and summer it produces whorls of tubular flowers in white, pink, purple or bi-coloured combinations � attractive to bees. An ornamental and fragrant native wildflower for a shady border or woodland garden.
About the genus
Melittis are aromatic, hairy perennials from the mint family with oval, wrinkled leaves and whorls of two-lipped flowers in white to pale pink with purple markings from May to August. Grown in shaded borders and woodland gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope
FragranceFlower, Foliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free