Overview
Melittis melissophyllum is a perennial herb in the genus Melittis, part of the Q53476 family. It typically grows around 0.3 m tall. Melittis melissophyllum grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ground cover and woodland garden. It is native to Europe.
About
Melittis melissophyllum is a perennial herb notable for its aromatic flowers and foliage, typically reaching about 0.3 metres. It flowers from May to July and releases scent from both blooms and leaves. Plant it in shaded, sheltered spots with moist but well-drained soil. It is commonly used as ground cover in woodland garden planting.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Melittis
About the genus
Melittis melissophyllum is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its common name is bastard balm.
In the garden
Melittis melissophyllum is a perennial herb native to Europe, grown for its scented foliage and summer flowers. It typically reaches around 0.3 metres and flowers from May to July, offering a lasting scented display through the early summer months. Position it in partial shade or full shade, choosing a sheltered aspect such as north, east or west where it will not be exposed to strong winds. It tolerates a broad range of soils — sandy, loamy or clay — and a wide pH from acidic to alkaline, but prefers a moist yet well-drained rooting environment. In the UK it is fully hardy (H7) and also falls within USDA zones 5–9. Use Melittis melissophyllum as a woodland ground cover or beneath trees and shrubs where its scent can be enjoyed. Plant in small groups or drifts to form a scented understorey; because both flowers and foliage are fragrant, siting it beside a path or seating area makes the most of its aroma.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melittis
- Sunlight
- Partial shade, Shade
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North, East, West
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Melittis melissophyllum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial herb
- Height
- 0.3 m
- Suggested uses
- Ground cover, Woodland garden
- Native to
- Europe
- Fragrance
- Flower, Foliage
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melittis melissophyllum
- Cultivation
- Prefers shady, moist but well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Melittis melissophyllum?
Prefers shady, moist but well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Melittis melissophyllum?
Melittis melissophyllum prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Melittis melissophyllum need?
Melittis melissophyllum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Melittis melissophyllum?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
How big does Melittis melissophyllum grow?
Melittis melissophyllum reaches a height of 0.3 m.
Is Melittis melissophyllum hardy in the UK?
Melittis melissophyllum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Melittis melissophyllum?
Seed, Division.
