What Are the Different Types of Lemon Balm Plant

Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is a versatile herb known for its lemony fragrance and calming properties. It belongs to the mint family and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking. Lemon balm plants are easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular choice for herb gardens. In this article, we will explore the different types of lemon balm plants and their unique characteristics.

Common Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

The most common type of lemon balm is Melissa officinalis, which is native to Europe and the Mediterranean region. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads vigorously. Common lemon balm has broad, heart-shaped leaves with a bright green color. The leaves have a distinct lemon scent when crushed, making it a popular addition to teas, desserts, and salads.

Common lemon balm is known for its calming properties and has been used to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation. It is also believed to have antiviral properties and can be used topically to treat cold sores and other skin conditions.

Variegated Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis ‘Variegata’)

Variegated lemon balm is a cultivar of the common lemon balm plant. It has the same lemony fragrance and calming properties but with an added ornamental value. Unlike the solid green leaves of the common variety, variegated lemon balm has leaves with creamy white edges.

The variegated foliage adds visual interest to herb gardens and makes it a popular choice for landscaping purposes. It can be used as a border plant or grown in containers for a striking display. In terms of care requirements, variegated lemon balm is similar to the common variety and thrives in well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade.

Lemon Balm ‘All Gold’ (Melissa officinalis ‘All Gold’)

Lemon balm ‘All Gold’ is another cultivar of Melissa officinalis that offers a unique twist on the traditional lemon balm plant. As the name suggests, this variety features vibrant golden-yellow leaves instead of the usual green. The bright foliage adds a pop of color to gardens and complements other plants beautifully.

In addition to its ornamental value, lemon balm ‘All Gold’ retains the same lemony fragrance and medicinal properties as the common variety. It can be used in the same way as other lemon balm plants – for teas, culinary purposes, or even as a natural insect repellent.

Lemon Balm ‘Lime’ (Melissa officinalis ‘Lime’)

For those looking for a lemon balm plant with a more intense citrus scent, lemon balm ‘Lime’ is an excellent choice. This cultivar has leaves that are slightly smaller and more elongated than the common variety. The leaves have a lime-green color and emit a strong lime fragrance when crushed.

Lemon balm ‘Lime’ is prized for its aromatic qualities and can be used to add a zesty flavor to dishes and beverages. It also possesses the same calming properties as other lemon balm plants, making it a popular choice for herbal remedies and aromatherapy.

Lemon Balm ‘Citronella’ (Melissa officinalis ‘Citronella’)

As the name suggests, lemon balm ‘Citronella’ is valued for its citronella-like fragrance, which acts as a natural mosquito repellent. This cultivar has a strong lemon scent that helps keep insects at bay. It shares the same growth habits and care requirements as the common lemon balm plant but offers an additional benefit of pest control.

Gardeners often plant lemon balm ‘Citronella’ near outdoor seating areas or in pots on patios to ward off mosquitoes and other flying insects. It can be harvested and used as a natural alternative to chemical insect repellents.

Conclusion

Lemon balm plants come in various types and cultivars, each offering unique characteristics and benefits. From the common variety with its calming properties to the variegated and colorful cultivars, lemon balm is a versatile herb that can add both beauty and functionality to any garden.

Whether you choose the traditional Melissa officinalis, the ornamental variegated lemon balm, or the fragrant ‘All Gold,’ ‘Lime,’ or ‘Citronella’ cultivars, growing lemon balm plants is a rewarding experience. So why not explore the different types of lemon balm plants and find the one that suits your needs and preferences?