# Melissa Officinalis - Lemon Balm
Characteristics: Has intensely lemon-scented, heart-shaped leaves on stems up to 2 1/2 feet high. It produces inconspicuous white flowers in summer and fall. Unlike other mints, it does not produce rapidly spreading runners. Growing Information: Easy to grow in well-drained, average to sandy soil and full sun to light shade. If growth is slow, fertilize once or twice during the growing season. Deadhead to prevent self-sowing and keep foliage from yellowing. Propagation: The most convenient way to start lemon balm is by dividing existing plants in spring and fall or transplanting self-sown seedlings in late spring. You can also sow seed outdoors in early spring or start seedlings indoors 8 weeks before the last spring frost. To bring lemon balm indoors for winter, take stem cuttings in midsummer. Cultivars: You can find variegated lemon balm; give it partial shade to retain leaf color in summer. Possible Problems: Thin out thickly growing clumps to prevent powdery mildew. Harvesting and Using: Fresh lemon balm will perfume a room with its lemony scent. But it has more fragrance than flavor and is strongest when fresh. Cut sprigs as you need them through the growing season and use them for herb tea, garnishing iced tea or wine, cooking with poultry or fish, or flavoring soups.