Marissa Limoncella ' Melissa officinalis'

The Marissa Limoncello, a variety of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis 'Limoncello'), boasts several distinct attributes:

Aroma: It emits a strong, refreshing lemon scent, more intense than other lemon balm varieties, making it highly valued for its fragrance.

Appearance: This plant features bright green, oval to heart-shaped leaves with a slightly toothed edge. It can produce small, white flowers in late summer, which are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Growth Habit: 'Limoncello' grows in a bushy, clump-forming manner, typically reaching heights of 18-24 inches and spreading about the same width.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, indicating good cold tolerance and the ability to thrive in a variety of climates.

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade, with more intense fragrance produced in full sun.

Soil and Water Needs: Thrives in well-drained soil with moderate moisture. While drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry spells.

Medicinal Benefits: Traditionally used for its calming effects, to aid digestion, and to help relieve stress and anxiety.

Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, enhancing biodiversity.

Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, though regular harvesting of leaves can encourage bushier growth. It can be invasive, so some gardeners prefer to contain it in pots.

Location: Choose a sunny to partly shaded spot in your garden.

Soil: Plant in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Spacing: Space plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow for full growth.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during dry spells.

Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning: Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy.

Harvesting: Harvest leaves as needed, preferably in the morning when the aromatic oils are strongest.

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