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Description
Melittis Melissophyllum, commonly known as Bastard Balm or Sweet Mary, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Europe and West Asia and has been naturalized in North America. This plant is known for its beautiful and unique characteristics, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping projects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Melittis |
Appearance
Melittis Melissophyllum grows to a height of 30-60 cm and has a spread of 30-60 cm. It has a bushy, clump-forming habit and produces ovate to lanceolate leaves that are 5-10 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces clusters of pink to lilac flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are tubular and have a white lower lip that is covered in purple spots. The upper lip is pink and hooded.
Care Guide
Melittis Melissophyllum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: This plant prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Melittis Melissophyllum prefers partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melittis Melissophyllum is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it may sometimes be affected by powdery mildew, root rot, or spider mites. These issues can be treated with fungicides or insecticides.
Habitat
Melittis Melissophyllum is native to Europe and West Asia, where it grows in meadows, woodland edges, and open areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. In North America, it has been naturalized in some areas and can be found in gardens, parks, and other landscaped areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melittis Melissophyllum a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: Does Melittis Melissophyllum have any medicinal properties?
A: This plant has been used in traditional herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Q: Can Melittis Melissophyllum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as there is enough space for its roots to grow.
Q: How often should Melittis Melissophyllum be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Melittis Melissophyllum:- Lavender (Lavandula)- Sage (Salvia)- Catmint (Nepeta)- Bee Balm (Monarda)
References
– “Melittis melissophyllum” Kew Science, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 17 May 2021.- “Melittis melissophyllum” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 May 2021.- “Melittis melissophyllum” Plants For A Future. Accessed 17 May 2021.
