Lemon Verbena Plant Info

Lemon verbena is a herb with a refreshing lemon-like aroma and flavor. It’s native to South America but has been cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world. It belongs to the verbena family, which includes other aromatic herbs like mint, basil, and rosemary.

Aloysia citrodora
Lemon verbena
Lemon beebrush
Lemon-scented verbena
Lemon Frost
Lemon Spice
Lemon Zest
Lemon Twist
The plant produces clusters of small pale pink or white flowers

Water

Lemon verbena needs regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot and dry weather. But it does not take too kindly to wet feet because this often results in root rot. In winter, water sparingly.

Sunlight

Place the plant in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to help produce the most fragrant leaves. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may become leggy and less aromatic.

Soil

The herb prefers light, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH of 6–8. It can adapt to acidic, alkaline, or neutral soils, but it doesn't appreciate clay or heavy soils.

Fertilizer

A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring and summer is enough to support the plant's growth and flowering.

Pruning

Prune lightly throughout the growing season to remove dead or damaged branches and encourage new growth. It's best to prune more heavily in late winter or early spring to remove old wood and stimulate new shoots.

Propagation

You can sow the seeds indoors in winter or spring after the last frost. Take cuttings from young stems in summer and root them in moist soil or water. Alternatively, you can divide the plant in spring or autumn by digging up the plant and separating the roots into smaller sections.

Thrives in

Outdoor

Toxicity

The plant is not toxic to humans or animals

Pests & Diseases

Lemon verbena is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, scale insects, or fungal infections.

Landscaping Ideas

Specimen plant
Hedging
Border
Container plant

Last Updated: August 16, 2023

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Author

Nonkululeko
Nonkululeko
I'm an enthusiastic gardener. I learned the art of growing my own food using sustainable gardening techniques from my father, which I still find effective for healthy plant growth. Gardening has become one of my best hobbies ever since I realized its benefits beyond growing my own food. Through experimenting and connecting with nature, I've found gardening to be a therapeutic and relaxing practice.