New 2008

A bushy herb, resembling mint in appearance, with a strong lemon scent when rubbed. The leaves make a calming balm tea. Height to 50cm (20in) but can be trimmed.

Can be invasive. Best grown in a pot/container.

Sow March to May. Place seed on the surface of seed compost and cover with a sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagatoror seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at 20-25C (68-77F) until after germination which takes up to 21 days. Keep compost on the dry side at all times. Do not exclude light.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or pots. Grow on in cooler conditions for a few days before planting out after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart.

Apply a mulch of compost for added winter protection.

Delicious added to stuffing, used with fish, poultry and even added to drinks to impart the lemon flavour.