Aloysia citrodora aka Lemon Verbena

In cultivation, Lemon Verbena typically reaches 1.8-2.5 meters (6-8 feet) in both height and spread when grown in the ground. In containers, it remains more compact at 0.6-1.2 meters (2-4 feet). In its native South American habitat, it can grow up to 3-4.5 meters (10-15 feet) tall. The plant has a moderate growth rate and develops a bushy, rounded form with proper pruning.

Lemon Verbena is native to South America, specifically the Andes Mountains region spanning from southern Bolivia to northwestern Argentina, with populations also found in Paraguay. Spanish explorers brought the plant to Europe in the 17th century, where it was initially cultivated for essential oil production. It has since been introduced and naturalized in many Mediterranean countries and is now cultivated worldwide in suitable climates.

Lemon Verbena is frost-sensitive and thrives in warm conditions. It loses its leaves when temperatures drop below 0°C (32°F), though the woody stems can survive temperatures down to -10°C (14°F). In USDA zones 8-10, it can be grown outdoors year-round with winter mulching for root protection. In colder regions, grow it in containers and move indoors before frost, placing it in a cool, frost-free location where it will go dormant and lose its leaves until spring.

Lemon Verbena tolerates a range of humidity levels and does not have specific high-humidity requirements. It originates from the Andes Mountains where conditions can be relatively dry. Average household or outdoor humidity is generally sufficient. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues, especially in more humid conditions.

Apply a balanced organic fertilizer once a month during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can actually decrease the production of the plant's prized aromatic essential oils. A light feeding is preferable to heavy fertilization. For container plants, use a half-strength liquid fertilizer during the growing season.

Lemon Verbena is deciduous and undergoes significant seasonal changes. In spring, prune when leaf buds begin to swell and new growth emerges. Summer is the active growing season—water regularly and fertilize monthly. In fall, reduce watering as growth slows. Before the first frost, apply thick mulch to protect roots outdoors, or move container plants to a frost-free location. During winter dormancy, the plant loses its leaves; water sparingly just to prevent complete drying out.

Lemon Verbena has one of the most intensely fragrant lemon scents of any plant. The glossy leaves release a powerful, refreshing citrus aroma when brushed or crushed—often described as reminiscent of sherbet lemons. The scent is cleaner and more intense than actual lemons. Remarkably, dried leaves retain their lemon fragrance for many years, making them valuable for potpourri. The essential oils responsible for the scent include citral and other aromatic compounds.

Lemon Verbena blooms from mid-summer to early fall (July through September), producing delicate sprays of tiny flowers. The blooms range from white to pale lilac or pale pink and are fragrant, though not particularly showy. The flowers attract bees and butterflies as pollinators. Note that plants grown in containers may flower less reliably than those grown in the ground, especially if conditions are less than ideal.

Lemon Verbena grows best outdoors in full sun in USDA zones 8-10 (UK hardiness H4). In zone 8, apply a thick winter mulch to protect the roots. In colder regions, grow in containers and move to a frost-free location before temperatures drop below 0°C (32°F). The plant is evergreen in tropical climates but deciduous in temperate zones. It has earned the RHS Award of Garden Merit, confirming its excellent garden performance in suitable climates.

Prune Lemon Verbena in late spring after all frost danger has passed and when you see leaf buds beginning to swell. Cut back to just above a leaf node to encourage a bushier, more compact form. Early spring pruning helps maintain shape and promotes vigorous new growth. You can also harvest leaves throughout the growing season, which effectively prunes the plant and encourages branching.

Lemon Verbena actually enjoys being slightly pot-bound, so don't rush to repot. When repotting is needed, move up only one pot size. Use a peat-free, soil-based compost mixed with equal parts sharp horticultural sand to ensure excellent drainage. Spring is the best time to repot, just as new growth begins. Container-grown plants typically reach 0.6-1.2 meters (2-4 feet), making them manageable for indoor overwintering.

Stem cuttings are the best propagation method for Lemon Verbena, as seed set is variable and unreliable in temperate climates. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer from current season's growth. Remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining potting mix. Keep moist and warm until roots develop. Cuttings root relatively easily and produce plants identical to the parent.

Lemon Verbena has no serious pest or disease problems. Occasional issues may include aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites—inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap if needed. The species is notably resistant to honey fungus, which affects many other plants. Good air circulation and proper watering help prevent any fungal issues. Overall, it's a relatively trouble-free plant.

Leaf drop in Lemon Verbena is often normal—it's a deciduous plant that naturally loses leaves in fall and winter, especially when temperatures drop below 0°C (32°F). If leaf drop occurs during the growing season, check for cold stress, overwatering (which can cause root problems), or severe drought. Plants brought indoors for winter will typically lose all their leaves during dormancy; this is normal and new growth will emerge in spring.

Yes, Lemon Verbena is highly valued as a culinary herb. The leaves and flowers are edible and widely used to add intense lemon flavor to teas (tisanes), desserts, fruit salads, jams, puddings, Greek yogurt, fish and poultry dishes, vegetable marinades, and beverages including liqueurs. The dried leaves retain their lemon aroma for many years. PFAF rates its edibility at 4 out of 5, confirming it as an excellent edible plant.

Lemon Verbena has a long history in traditional medicine, particularly in Latin America where it was used by Incan healers. It's traditionally used for digestive issues (bloating, indigestion, cramps), anxiety, insomnia, and fever. The plant has antispasmodic, sedative, and carminative properties. Scientific studies support its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, clinical data is limited, and use should be avoided during pregnancy or in those with renal insufficiency.

Beyond culinary and medicinal uses, Lemon Verbena is valued for aromatherapy and fragrance. The dried leaves retain their scent for years, making them excellent for potpourri and sachets. The essential oil is used in perfumes, cosmetics, and soap-making. The plant was originally brought to Europe specifically for essential oil production. It also serves as an attractive ornamental plant and has earned the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Lemon Verbena is pollinated by insects, primarily bees and butterflies/moths that are attracted to its nectar-rich flowers. The small, fragrant blooms appear from mid-summer to early fall and provide valuable forage for pollinators. Growing Lemon Verbena can help support local pollinator populations in your garden.

With its straightforward care requirements, Lemon Verbena is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Lemon Verbena should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lemon Verbena loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lemon Verbena requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Aloysia Triphylla is always in the right place to thrive.

Lemon Verbena is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.