Aloysia citrodora, commonly known as Lemon Verbena, is a perennial shrub native to the warm temperate and subtropical regions of South America, particularly Argentina, Chile, and Peru. It typically grows to a height of 7-10 feet with a similar spread, and is characterized by its glossy, pointed leaves that emit a strong lemon scent when bruised. The plant produces clusters of tiny, pale purple or white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer, which are less showy compared to its foliage but add a delicate touch to the plant’s overall appearance.

Lemon Verbena is highly valued for its intense lemon fragrance and is widely used in culinary applications, such as flavoring fish, poultry dishes, and beverages. It is also popular in the creation of potpourri and herbal teas. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to part shade, in well-drained soil, and requires regular watering. While it is evergreen in tropical climates, it may lose its leaves when temperatures drop below 32°F. Pruning in spring is recommended to maintain a bushy form and encourage new growth. Lemon Verbena can be susceptible to whitefly and spider mites, especially when grown indoors or in dry conditions. It is not known to be invasive but can become leggy without proper pruning.CC BY-SA 4.0