Mellitis
melittis melissophyllum
Also known as: ["Balm-mint","Lipwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its fragrant leaves and distinctive flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Melittis |
| Botanical Name: | Melittis melissophyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partial shade garden bed or container with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; should not stay waterlogged but retain some moisture.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light is ideal; adjust based on season to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; place in a shaded spot outdoors or filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; ensure good drainage; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid extreme heat or cold drafts.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems; light shaping of new growth; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; continue until water drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure good drainage; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMelittis melissophyllum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain compounds known to be harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicMelittis melissophyllum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain compounds known to be harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Slightly ToxicMelittis melissophyllum contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if consumed in significant quantities over time. The plant is generally considered safe in small amounts but may pose a risk with excessive ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Melittis melissophyllum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring consistent maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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