Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 16, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fast-growing, fragrant perennial herb in the mint family with soft, lemon-scented leaves and small white flowers attractive to bees. It is hardy in zone 9b and grows well in NE Florida in partial shade with consistent moisture; afternoon shade, good air circulation, and base watering are key to preventing powdery mildew in Florida's humidity. Starting at $2.50.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Herbaceous perennial
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
In NE Florida, grow lemon balm in partial shade — afternoon shade is essential to prevent leaf scorch and wilting during hot summers. Morning sun is beneficial; avoid full afternoon sun in zones 9a/9b.
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained; do not let it dry out completely. Water at the base in the morning to keep foliage dry and reduce the risk of powdery mildew, which is a concern in NE Florida's high humidity. Space plants 18–24 inches apart for good air circulation.
Grows well in NE Florida's sandy, well-drained soil amended with compost. A light balanced fertilizer application in spring is sufficient; avoid over-fertilizing, which promotes excess leafy growth at the expense of fragrance and invites fungal disease.
Similar needs
Borage
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Cilantro
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Bay Laurel
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Catnip
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Parsley
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Chervil
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
You may also like
Common questions
Is Lemon Balm a good plant for St. Augustine?
Lemon Balm is a herb for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 12-24 inches × 12-18 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.