Melittis melissophyllum

RHS Plant Profile
bastard balm

Other common names

baum leaf, honey balm, y wenynog

Herbaceous Perennial

A strongly aromatic, herbaceous perennial to 60cm tall, forming a clump of erect, square stems. The leaves, borne in opposite pairs, are softly hairy and wrinkled. In late spring and summer it produces whorls of tubular flowers in white, pink or purple, or white with pink or purple lips; the flowers are attractive to bees. Grow this native wildflower in a shady border or woodland garden

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Melittis are a group of flowering plants from the mint family. Flowering from May to August, they can vary in shape and colour and are often strongly aromatic. Leaves are oval and hairy and stems are upright and also hairy. Flower colour can be white to pale pink with a purple blotch on the lower lip.
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Divide in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free