Lemon Verbena
$4.99
4.5” Pot
Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora) is a fragrant, South American perennial shrub prized for its intense lemon-scented leaves, used in teas, culinary dishes, and aromatherapy. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, often grown in pots for easy winter protection, and offers medicinal benefits, including antioxidant and calming properties.
Key Characteristics and Growth
- Appearance: A woody shrub that can grow 3–10 feet tall, with pale green, lance-shaped leaves that release a strong lemon scent when crushed.
- Flowers: Produces small, white or pale lilac flowers in early summer.
- Cultivation: Thrives in hot, sunny, well-drained locations. It is only hardy in warm climates (Zones 9–11), requiring protection or bringing indoors during cold winters, during which it may drop leaves.
- Uses: Widely used for herbal teas, seasoning poultry or fish, and in jellies.
Medicinal and Health Benefits
- Antioxidant Power: Rich in phenolic compounds like verbascoside, which help fight free radicals.
- Digestive and Calming: Traditionally used to alleviate indigestion, reduce intestinal cramps, and ease stress or insomnia.