Melittis melissophyllum aka Immenblatt
Taxonomy
Melittis melissophyllum, also known as bastard balm, is a unique species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Melittis. This compact, clump-forming perennial reaches a height and width of about 40cm. Its oval or egg-shaped leaves have deep veins and scalloped edges, and both the stems and leaves are covered with hairs that emit a honey scent. During late spring and early summer, small whorls of orchid-like flowers bloom, featuring a dark purple lower lip and a white upper lip. Melittis melissophyllum can be found in different regions, including western Europe from Britain to Spain and Italy, as well as the eastern Mediterranean from Sardinia to Turkey and eastern Europe from Austria to the Baltic States. The genus name of this plant is derived from the Greek word melitta, meaning "a bee," highlighting its connection to bees.
Common names
Immenblatt, Bastard Balm, Wood Bastard BalmHow to care for Immenblatt
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Immenblatt is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Immenblatt should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Immenblatt prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Immenblatt to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Region of origin
Immenblatt’s native range is Central and southern Europe, including Britain.
More info:
Wikipedia