Melissa officinalis - Lemon Balm

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Plants like full sun in northern areas but appreciate some part afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Plants adapt to a wide range of soils including poor ones. Avoid wet soils, particularly in winter. Frequent pruning, including removal of spend flower stalks, tends to (1) encourage growth of new leaves which have the best fragrance, (2) minimize self-seeding and (3) form the most ornamentally attractive plants. Unpruned plants may acquire a somewhat weedy appearance.