Lemon verbena
Aloysia citrodora
Botanical family: Verbenaceae
Aloysia citrodora (syn. Lippia citriodora), a South American Verbenaceae with a lemon scent. Not to be confused with common vervain (Verbena officinalis), an entirely different plant. Sources: Tela Botanica, “Aloysia citrodora Palau”; Plants For A Future, “Aloysia citriodora”.
Full sun, warm and sheltered
Well-drained, light; dislikes stagnant winter moisture
Moderate
Frost-tender (~-5 to -10 °C): mulch at the base, overwinter in a pot in the north; sometimes regrows from the crown
Protect over winter in your zone
Role in permaculture
A shrub with powerfully lemon-scented foliage, the queen of evening infusions. Its summer flowering, discreet but nectar-bearing, feeds bees and butterflies. Cold-sensitive, it's grown outdoors in the South and in a pot elsewhere, brought in away from frost. An aromatic of pleasure, to be picked all summer and dried for winter.
Companions
No companion planting is documented for this plant: no recommended neighbour, no neighbour to avoid.
Seasons & availability
A frost-tender shrub brought in or protected over winter: strongly scented leaves picked from June to October, then dried for infusions.
Available: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- Plants For A Future, « Aloysia triphylla » (pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Aloysia+triphylla)
- Gerbeaud, « Verveine citronnelle » (gerbeaud.com/jardin/fiches/verveine-citronnelle.php)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
A comfort herbal tea; in case of treatment, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, seek advice.
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.
Species
Key takeaways
- • Prefers full sun, warm and sheltered exposure.
- • Ideal soil: well-drained, light; dislikes stagnant winter moisture.