Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an herb in the mint family. It is often used for culinary purposes to make teas, marinate chicken or fish, or flavor baked foods and jams. Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Plants like full sun in northern areas but appreciate some part afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Plants adapt to a wide range of soils including poor ones. Avoid wet soils, particularly in winter. It is native to southern Europe, but has escaped gardens and naturalized in many parts of the U.S. Leaves are edible and may be added to salads, soups, sauces or vegetables. Leaves are also used to flavor teas. Plant lemon balm during the warm weather of late spring, once all chances of frost have passed.