Plants: Aloysia triphylla - Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena is a shrub that grows to a height of 2-4 feet in most of the US. In very hot climates it grows much taller. It has a woody trunk and branches with tender stems holding long pointed leaves. Small, pale mauve flowers are produced from summer to autumn. Leaves have a strong lemon fragrance and flavor.

Cultivation:

Propagate from cuttings taken in spring or summer. Protect from frost by planting in a sheltered area. If you have a sunny location in your home, bringing it indoors for winter. It makes an excellent house plant! Plant in a sunny area. Prefers a neutral pH and good drainage. Prune hard in autumn.

Harvesting:

Cut leaves as needed and save all prunings for drying.

Culinary Uses:

Sprinkle over salads or vegetables for a lemony flavor. Use to flavor stuffings for meat.Stir into herb butter or cottage cheese. Makes a refreshing tea in combination with mint or alone. Good served iced. Use liberally when on a low salt diet. Try combining with dried celery and lovage leaves.

Other Uses:

Put leaves in the vacuum cleaner to freshen the house. An infusion will make a nice skin freshener an toner. Flowers can be used in arrangements. The leaves lend a pleasant sent to bed linens. Great for potpourri.

Synonyms: Aloysia citriodora, Lippia citriodora

Publisher: Hirt's Gardens