Citronella Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis ‘Citronella’) is a vigorous perennial herb valued for its lush green foliage and small white summer blooms that support pollinators. Its mounded growth habit makes it an attractive leafy accent in borders, herb gardens, and container plantings. Hardy and easy to grow, it thrives in sunny to lightly shaded areas and forms long-lived clumps that return year after year, adding soft texture to ornamental and wildlife gardens.
Features
• Dense leafy clumps with bright green foliage
• Small white blooms attract bees and beneficial insects
• Reliable perennial that returns each spring
• Grows well in containers, borders, and herb garden displays
• Easy to grow and tolerant of varied soils
• Non-GMO Melissa officinalis ‘Citronella’ variety
Specifications
• Common Name: Citronella Lemon Balm
• Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis ‘Citronella’
• Plant Type: Perennial herb
• USDA Zones: 4–9
• Foliage Color: Bright green
• Flower Color: White
• Bloom Season: Late spring to mid-summer
• Height: 18–30 inches
• Spread: 12–24 inches
• Growth Habit: Bushy, leafy, clumping
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Moderate
• Pollinator Value: Attracts bees and beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Start indoors 6–8 weeks before frost or direct sow outdoors in spring.
• Lightly press seeds into soil; do not bury deeply (requires light).
• Keep soil evenly moist until germination (10–20 days).
• Transplant after frost into full sun to partial shade.
• Water moderately and avoid soggy soil.
• Allow clumps to expand for perennial displays.
• Remove spent flowers or leave seeds for natural reseeding.
