Lemon Balm Seeds for a Fragrant Perennial Herb Garden, Heirloom Melissa officinalis for Sun or Partial Shade
Lemon balm seeds grow into a fragrant perennial herb that brings a bright, citrusy aroma to the herb garden. Melissa officinalis develops fuzzy, green arrowhead leaves on upright, bushy plants, followed by small white flowers that add interest through the warm growing season.
Give plants full sun to partial shade and well-drained loamy or sandy soil. Their mature height of 24–36 inches makes spacing worth planning: allow 20–24 inches between plants. These heirloom, non-GMO seeds are offered in four package weights, from 500 mg to 1 lb.
Features
- Heirloom, non-GMO and open-pollinated herb seeds
- Perennial Melissa officinalis in the mint family
- Bright, citrusy fragrance with a honey-like character
- Upright, bushy growth reaching 24–36 inches tall
- Green, fuzzy arrowhead leaves and small white flowers
- Full sun to partial shade; suitable for container growing
- Hardiness zones 4–9
Specifications
- Product type: Herb Seeds
- Botanical name: Melissa officinalis
- Life cycle: Perennial
- Days to maturity: 70+ days for leaves; 90+ days for seeds
- Hardiness zones: 4–9
- Planting depth: 1/4 inch
- Plant spacing: 20–24 inches
- Mature height: 24–36 inches
- Growth habit: Upright and bushy
- Soil: Loamy or sandy and well-drained
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Temperature preference: Warm
- 500 mg package: Approximately 700 seeds
- 1 oz package: Approximately 40,000 seeds
- 4 oz package: Approximately 160,000 seeds
- 1 lb package: Approximately 640,000 seeds
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun does lemon balm need?
Lemon balm grows in full sun to partial shade. Choose well-drained loamy or sandy soil and allow 20–24 inches between plants for its bushy growth.
How deep should I plant these lemon balm seeds?
Plant these lemon balm seeds 1/4 inch deep. Plan for mature plants to reach 24–36 inches tall.
How many seeds are in each package?
The 500 mg package contains approximately 700 seeds; 1 oz contains approximately 40,000; 4 oz contains approximately 160,000; and 1 lb contains approximately 640,000.
Is this lemon balm a perennial?
Yes, Melissa officinalis is a perennial herb listed for hardiness zones 4–9. It may overwinter in milder climates.
When does lemon balm reach maturity?
Lemon balm reaches leaf maturity in 70+ days and seed maturity in 90+ days. Its foliage develops a bright, citrusy fragrance as the plant matures.