Orange Balm (Melissa officinalis ‘Orange’) is a perennial herb known for its unique citrusy, orange-like scent. A relative of common lemon balm, it is a versatile and fragrant addition to gardens.
What is Orange Balm?
Orange Balm is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It has bright green, slightly textured, serrated leaves. When crushed, these leaves release a strong, sweet orange scent.
The plant typically grows 12 to 24 inches tall with a bushy, mounding habit. Small white or pale flowers appear in summer, attracting pollinators.
How to Grow Orange Balm
Orange Balm is an adaptable herb that thrives with proper care.
Light Requirements
Orange Balm thrives in full sun to partial shade. More sunlight generally contributes to a stronger scent and vigorous growth. In hot climates, afternoon shade can prevent leaf damage.
Soil Preferences
Orange Balm prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Good drainage prevents waterlogging and root issues. The plant adapts to various soil types, often performing well even in poorer, infertile soil.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is beneficial for Orange Balm, but avoid waterlogging the soil. New plantings should be watered daily for the first couple of weeks to help them establish. After establishment, watering can be adjusted to every two or three days, depending on weather and soil type, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Deep watering encourages the development of a strong root system.
Temperature and Humidity
Orange Balm is a hardy perennial thriving in USDA Zones 4 through 9. It prefers moderate temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). While it tolerates light frost, extreme cold below 15°F (-10°C) can damage leaves. Temperatures above 95°F (35°C) can cause wilting and sunburn, making afternoon shade beneficial.
Fertilizing and Pruning
Orange Balm has minimal fertilization needs, often thriving without added nutrients and sometimes preferring poorer soil. If fertilizing, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring supports growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause leggy growth and increase susceptibility to issues. Regular pruning encourages a bushier habit, prevents legginess, curtails self-seeding, and promotes new, fragrant leaf growth.
Propagating Orange Balm
Orange Balm can be propagated through several methods.
Seeds can be sown indoors in early spring, 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. They require light for germination, so barely cover them with soil and keep them consistently moist. Germination occurs within 10 to 14 days.
Stem cuttings are another method. Take healthy, non-flowering stems about 4 inches long in spring or early summer. Remove most bottom leaves and place cuttings in water or moist soil. Roots typically develop within 2 to 4 weeks. Rooting hormone can increase success.
Division is the easiest way to propagate established plants. Dig up mature plants and divide them into sections, ensuring each has a healthy root system. Perform this in early spring or late summer, allowing new plants to establish before extreme temperatures.
Uses and Benefits of Orange Balm
Orange Balm is a versatile plant with practical and aesthetic applications. Its primary appeal is its distinct citrusy aroma and flavor.
In culinary uses, Orange Balm adds a refreshing, zesty twist to dishes and beverages. The fresh leaves can be used to make herbal teas or infused into cocktails. It can also be incorporated into desserts like fruit salads, sorbets, or baked goods. The leaves are suitable for savory dishes, such as salads, dressings, or sauces, and can replace lemon rind in some recipes. Adding it near the end of cooking helps preserve its flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Orange Balm is valued for its aromatic qualities. The dried leaves can be used in potpourri or sachets to impart a pleasant orange scent to indoor spaces. Planting Orange Balm along walkways or in patio containers allows its fragrance to be enjoyed as leaves are brushed.
Traditionally, Orange Balm, like lemon balm, has been associated with wellness benefits, often used for its calming properties. It has been used to promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and support restful sleep. Some traditional uses include aiding digestion and soothing insect bites. However, these are traditional uses, and scientific research is ongoing to fully understand its effects.
Common Orange Balm Issues
Orange Balm is generally a resilient plant, but it can encounter a few common issues. One problem is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as white or gray powdery spots on leaves and stems. This issue is more likely in humid conditions, areas with low light, or when plants are crowded, which restricts air circulation. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around plants and avoid over-fertilization, which can encourage susceptible new growth. If powdery mildew appears, remove affected leaves, and apply treatments like baking soda solutions or organic fungicides.
Spider mites can affect Orange Balm, especially in dry conditions. Signs of spider mites include stippling on leaves, discoloration, and fine webbing. Increasing humidity around the plant through misting or regular washing of leaves can help deter these pests. Ensuring the plant receives adequate water and light can also boost its natural resistance. While Orange Balm is generally resistant to many pests, maintaining overall plant health through appropriate care helps minimize the likelihood of infestations.