Lemon Verbena
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora), also known as Lemon Beebrush, is a fragrant, deciduous perennial shrub known for its intensely aromatic lemon-scented leaves. This versatile herb is prized for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses, making it a valuable addition to herb gardens, containers, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Distinctive Features
Lemon Verbena is characterized by its narrow, lance-shaped leaves that release a strong lemon fragrance when crushed. It produces small, pale purple or white flowers in late summer, attracting butterflies and beneficial insects. The plant can reach up to 6 feet in height in warm climates and is often pruned to maintain a compact shape.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for best growth and fragrance.
- Soil: Thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
- Water: Requires regular watering but prefers slightly dry conditions between waterings.
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to low humidity.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 8-11 (grown as an annual or overwintered indoors in cooler climates).
Ideal Uses
- Culinary Herb: Leaves are commonly used in teas, desserts, and flavoring.
- Fragrant Garden Addition: Releases a refreshing citrus aroma when touched.
- Container Gardening: Grows well in pots, making it easy to move indoors for winter.
- Pollinator Garden: Attracts butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Low Maintenance Care
Lemon Verbena is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning and watering.
- Watering: Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Pruning: Trim regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Propagation: Easily propagated by softwood cuttings.
Why Choose Lemon Verbena?
With its refreshing scent, culinary versatility, and pollinator-friendly nature, Lemon Verbena is a fantastic addition to any herb garden.
- Intense Lemon Fragrance: One of the most aromatic herbs available.
- Edible & Medicinal: Used in teas, desserts, and natural remedies.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond pruning and watering.
- Versatile Placement: Ideal for herb gardens, containers, and sunny borders.
For those looking to add a highly fragrant, multi-purpose herb to their garden, Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is an excellent choice.
OUR SIZING
Not sure what 2 inch B&B or 30 Gallon Clump really means? This guide breaks down all our plant size terms so you know exactly what to expect, whether you're ordering online or picking up at our nursery. From caliper measurements to container volumes, we've decoded our system to help you shop with confidence.
Plant Detectives Shipping Guide
Nationwide plant shipping made easy. Learn how we ship trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. No order too big or too small. Fast, careful, and contractor-friendly.