Herb: Bastard Balm


Latin name: Melittis melissophyllum


Synonyms: Melittis grandiflora, Melittis sylvestris


Family: Labiatae



Medicinal use of Bastard Balm:

Astringent, blood purifier, diuretic, emmenagogue, sedative, vulnerary.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
30 cm
(11 3/4 inch)

Flowering:
May to
July

Scent:
Scented
Perennial

Habitat of the herb:

Hedges, scrub and mountain woods.

Edible parts of Bastard Balm:

A coumarin scented (like new-mown hay) herb, it is occasionally used for making a "Maiwein" or "Maibowle" type of beverage.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - best sown in a cold frame in the autumn. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.

Cultivation of Bastard Balm:

Hedges, scrub and mountain woods.

Known hazards of Melittis melissophyllum:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.