GOLDEN LEMON BALM SEEDS

Melissa officinalis 'Gold Leaf'

An extraordinarily ornamental selection of this easy tea herb. Erupts from the ground in spring a dramatic glowing yellow that becomes slightly mottled before transforming into a more uniform light green as summer heat ensues. As fragrant as most other common strains of this species, but not nearly so exceptional as our favorite ‘Quedlinburger' strain. Best as an ornamental used sparingly for flavoring and garnishing drinks and tucking into spring rolls. We mainly love this selection for its ability to light up the early spring herb garden.

Sow seeds indoors around 8 weeks before transplanting outdoors: press seeds into moist well-drained soil, barely covering with additional soil or fine vermiculite. Mist generously and cover with plastic. Kept warm (70°F) and moist in bright light seeds should begin to germinate within two weeks or so. Uncover promptly. Germination once the seeds are uncovered can be erratic without consistent heat and moisture, so mist often and be patient. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual containers or cells filled with good loose potting soil in bright light with good air circulation. Harden off before transplanting into sunny soils in spring or autumn.

Relatively tidy bushy plants bloom in white or pale lilac, but we usually choose to keep the flowering stems trimmed to encourage new tender growth. Hardy to at least zone 5 given good drainage. Very nice with Lavandula and Dianthus species. Emerges early enough to make a nice contrasting companion for Tulipa humilis and Allium karataviense.

Packet contains at least 30 seeds.