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Description
Melissa Axillaris, commonly known as lemon balm, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal and culinary properties. The plant can reach a height of up to 70 cm and has a spreading habit, with ovate, toothed leaves that are highly fragrant and lemon-scented when crushed. In summer, Melissa Axillaris produces clusters of small, white or yellowish flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Melissa |
Appearance
Melissa Axillaris has a bushy, upright growth habit with square stems that are often reddish in color. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and toothed, with a bright green color and a highly fragrant, lemony scent when crushed. The plant produces small, tubular flowers in summer that are white or yellowish in color and highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. Melissa Axillaris can reach a height of up to 70 cm and a spread of up to 90 cm, making it a great choice for herb gardens and container plantings.
Care Guide
Melissa Axillaris is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in most garden settings. Here are some tips for caring for your lemon balm:
- Water: Melissa Axillaris prefers consistently moist soil, so be sure to water it regularly during dry spells. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
- Fertilization: Lemon balm doesn’t require much fertilization, but you can give it a boost in spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Melissa Axillaris prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Lemon balm prefers partial shade to full sun, but will tolerate some shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: Melissa Axillaris is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melissa Axillaris is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck sap from the leaves and stems of lemon balm, causing stunted growth and leaf curl. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves, as well as webbing in severe infestations. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of lemon balm, leading to leaf drop and stunted growth. Improve air circulation and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent powdery mildew.
Habitat
Melissa Axillaris is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, where it grows in meadows, woodland edges, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining, fertile soil and partial shade to full sun. Lemon balm has been naturalized in many parts of the world and is commonly grown in herb gardens, vegetable gardens, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melissa Axillaris edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Melissa Axillaris are edible and can be used fresh or dried to flavor teas, salads, soups, and other dishes. The leaves have a strong lemon flavor and aroma.
Q: How do I propagate Melissa Axillaris?
A: Lemon balm can be propagated from seed or by division. Sow seeds in spring, or divide established plants in spring or fall. Cuttings can also be taken in summer and rooted in a moist rooting medium.
Q: Is Melissa Axillaris drought-tolerant?
A: No, Melissa Axillaris prefers consistently moist soil and will suffer if it becomes too dry. Water regularly during dry spells to keep the soil evenly moist.
Q: Is Melissa Axillaris deer-resistant?
A: No, Melissa Axillaris is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in the area.
Related Plants
- Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm)
- Ocimum Basilicum (Basil)
- Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)
- Mentha Spicata (Spearmint)
References
- “Melissa axillaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b954.
- “Melissa axillaris.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1281/.
- “Melissa axillaris.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12711/i-Melissa-axillaris-i/Details.
