Lemon Balm Variegata

Lemon Balm Variegata (Melissa officinalis 'Variegata') is a decorative variegated form grown as much for its foliage as its scent, a bushy perennial to around 30 cm with wrinkled dark green leaves edged in golden-yellow. The gold margins are brightest in spring and tend to fade in summer heat and once the plant flowers, so it is cut back in early summer to trigger a fresh flush of variegated growth. Its crushed leaves give the familiar strong lemon fragrance and are used like common lemon balm. Grow it in well-drained soil in full sun, propagating by division since it will not hold variegation from seed.