The large mint family is home to the small but fine genus of lemon balm. The best known representative is undoubtedly the lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). We have put together a list of other species to discover here for you.

Seductive subspecies - you should know these

The botanists assign Melissa officinalis to different subspecies, which emerged directly from the lemon balm in the course of breeding. The outstanding advantage is that the special attributes are reflected in the hybrids.

Crete lemon balm (Melissa officinalis ssp. altissima)

Crete lemon balm found its way into our gardens from Greece. It impresses with a fruity aroma reminiscent of limes. In addition, it adorns the bed with violet flowers from June to September. In a sunny location, a growth height of up to 80 centimeters is possible.

Common Lemon Balm - Common Swirl (Melissa vulgaris)

The perennial is beautiful to look at with its pink lipped flowers. At the same time, the green, simple leaves are suitable as a fresh ingredient for cold and warm dishes or drinks. Even in a partially shaded location, it can grow to a height of up to 60 centimetres.

Bee balm (Monarda didyma)

Botanically assigned to another branch of the mint family, the bee balm nevertheless has all the important properties. This includes, for example, the delicious taste of bergamot. Not to forget the beautiful purple-purple flowers that bloom from June to September. Very suitable for freezing.

Get to know the star in the lemon balm sky here

The state institute for soil culture and plant cultivation resides in Weihenstephan, whose specialists have succeeded in producing one of the best breeds. Under the variety name 'Binsuga', the herbal plant conquers all hearts thanks to the following attributes:

  • white-pink flowers from June to September
  • compact growth height of 20 to 40 centimeters
  • hardy to - 24 degrees Celsius
  • highest content of essential oils

This means that 'Binsuga' outperforms its conspecifics, as it is too well suited for pot culture due to its comparatively small growth height.

tips and tricks

If you add the Japanese purple parsley (Cryptotaenia japonica) to the lemon balm species in the bed as a plant neighbor, a breathtaking play of colors is created. Parsley develops purple foliage that contrasts beautifully with the white-pink or purple flowers and velvety green leaves of lemon balm.

GTH

Category:

Vegetable garden