Lemon balm

Where does Lemon balm grow?

Found in: Africa, Albania, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Balkans, Bosnia, Britain, Bulgaria, Canada, Caucasus, Central America, Central Asia, Chile, China, Congo DR, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Europe, France, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Lithuania, Macedonia, Mediterranean, Morocco, North Africa, North America, Pacific, Panama, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, PNG, Philippines, Portugal, Romania, Russia, SE Asia, Serbia, Slovenia, South America, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Tasmania, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uruguay, United States, Uzbekistan, Yugoslavia

Notes: There are about 4 Melissa species.

Status: In Papua New Guinea it occurs in some highland gardens.

Growing Lemon balm

Cultivation: It can be grown from seeds or division of the root. Seed are slow to start growing. It can also be grown by tip cuttings which are put into water to form roots. The flowers should be picked off. Plants can be cut back to near ground level and allowed to regrow.

Edible Uses: The lemon flavoured leaves are used for drinks or flavouring foods and is used either raw or cooked. They can be used in salads. It is also used to flavour liqueurs. It is added to meat and vegetable dishes. It is used in soups and sauces. The leaves can be used for tea.

Production: It is best used fresh.

Nutrition Info

Lemon balm Photos

References

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