Mandarina Lemon Balm is a unique variety of the classic Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), known for its bright, citrusy aroma and distinct mandarin-orange fragrance. This variety stands out for its sweeter, more intense citrus notes, making it a fantastic addition to any herb garden, especially for those who love fresh, fragrant herbs. Mandarina Lemon Balm is not only popular for its flavor but also for its soothing, calming properties, widely used in teas, tinctures, and culinary applications. Its bold, refreshing scent and mild lemon flavor make it perfect for enhancing drinks, desserts, and savory dishes alike. This easy-to-grow herb thrives in a variety of garden settings and is well-loved for its ability to attract pollinators and its versatile uses.

Key Features:

• Citrus Aroma & Flavor: The leaves of Mandarina Lemon Balm have a unique mandarin-orange scent and flavor, making it a refreshing twist on the classic lemon balm.
• Medicinal Uses: Known for its calming and soothing properties, it’s often used in teas and herbal remedies to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.
• Culinary Delight: Adds a sweet citrus flavor to both sweet and savory dishes, perfect for beverages, salads, desserts, or garnishes.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent addition to any pollinator garden.
• Fast-Growing & Low Maintenance: Mandarina Lemon Balm is easy to grow and maintains a compact, bushy form, requiring little care once established.
• Versatile Herb: Suitable for herb gardens, kitchen gardens, and container planting, Mandarina Lemon Balm thrives in various environments, making it an excellent plant for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike.

Growing Information:

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates, but for the best flavor and aroma, it thrives in direct sunlight for at least 4–6 hours a day.
• Soil Preferences: Grows best in well-drained, moderately rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, though it prefers moist, fertile soil.
• Planting Tips:
  1. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
  2. Press seeds lightly into the soil, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist and maintain temperatures around 65–70°F (18–21°C) for germination.
  3. Space plants about 12–18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and room for growth.
• Watering Needs: Mandarina Lemon Balm prefers consistent moisture but does not like soggy soil. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Pruning & Harvesting:
  1. Harvest leaves as needed, ideally before the plant flowers for the most aromatic and flavorful leaves.
  2. To maintain a bushy form, pinch back any long stems regularly and cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth.
  3. Flowers can be harvested as they bloom and are also edible, adding a mild citrus flavor to dishes.
• Winter Care: Mandarina Lemon Balm is hardy in USDA zones 4–9. In colder climates, the plant may die back in winter but typically regrows in the spring. In colder areas, mulch around the base to protect the roots during the winter months.

Benefits:

• Relaxation & Stress Relief: Mandarina Lemon Balm is known for its calming effects and has traditionally been used to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. A cup of Lemon Balm tea can help relieve stress and improve mood.
• Digestive Support: Like regular Lemon Balm, Mandarina Lemon Balm has digestive benefits and can help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps.
• Antioxidant Properties: Contains antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress and promote overall well-being.
• Culinary Uses: Adds a refreshing, citrusy flavor to a variety of dishes, drinks, and desserts. Great in lemonade, teas, salads, fish dishes, or even baked goods.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens.
• Versatile in the Garden: Easy to grow and maintain, it can be used in herb gardens, kitchen gardens, or even as a border plant or container plant.

Growing Zones:

• Suitable for USDA zones 4–9. Mandarina Lemon Balm is a perennial in milder climates but may be grown as an annual or container plant in colder zones.

How to Use in the Garden:

• Herb Gardens: Mandarina Lemon Balm is a perfect addition to herb gardens, especially those dedicated to soothing or culinary herbs. Its refreshing citrus aroma adds variety to any herb collection.
• Culinary Gardens: This herb is excellent for kitchen gardens. Grow it near the kitchen for easy access to fresh, fragrant leaves to enhance your meals and beverages.
• Pollinator Gardens: The fragrant flowers of Mandarina Lemon Balm attract bees and butterflies, making it a great plant for encouraging pollinators in the garden.
• Container Gardens: Mandarina Lemon Balm grows well in containers, making it perfect for patios, balconies, or small garden spaces.

Conclusion:
Mandarina Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis 'Mandarina') offers a refreshing twist on the classic Lemon Balm with its sweet, mandarin-orange aroma and flavor. Ideal for both culinary and medicinal purposes, this herb is a must-have for any herb garden. Its calming properties make it perfect for tea, while its unique citrus flavor enhances a wide variety of dishes. Easy to grow, low-maintenance, and pollinator-friendly, Mandarina Lemon Balm is perfect for gardeners of all experience levels. Whether used in the kitchen or for its soothing benefits, this versatile herb is sure to become a favorite in your garden.