LEMON VERBENA
Aloysia citrodora
Intensely fragrant leaves with a strong lemon scent!
Jess puts the leaves on top of white fish fillets in the oven and the leaves can be used in lots of dishes that typically use lemon.
They apparently make an excellent herb tea but we haven't tried this yet.
Lemon verbena is another plant we use around our wicking beds because every time you brush against it, it releases a lemony scent.
Lemon verbena will grow to a shrub size and likes warm weather and good drainage.
It's also a good companion plant for dill and basil due to their shared love of warm weather and water.
Lemon Verbena is a deciduous shrub prized for its highly aromatic leaves that release a powerful lemon fragrance when touched. It's a wonderful addition to any herb garden.
It produces small, pale purple or white flowers in summer. However, it's primarily grown for its leaves, which are used for culinary and fragrant purposes.
Plant in well-drained soil and a sunny location. It prefers protection from frost and benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape.
Enjoy its invigorating lemon scent in teas, desserts, and potpourri!
PRICE: $6.00
SIZE: 5cm radius seedling
Lemon Verbena
Aloysia citrodora
Australian History
Lemon Verbena, or Aloysia citrodora, is native to South America and was introduced to Australia for its intensely fragrant leaves. It has become a popular herb in gardens across the country, valued for its culinary and aromatic uses.
Australian Uses
In Australia, Lemon Verbena is primarily used for its fragrant leaves. They are used to flavour teas, desserts, jams, and beverages. The leaves can also be dried and used in potpourri. It's also grown as an ornamental plant in herb gardens.
Australian Growing Guide
Growing Lemon Verbena in your Australian garden requires well-drained soil and a sunny location. Plant it in spring or autumn, spacing the plants about 60-90cm apart as it can grow into a sizable shrub. It prefers protection from frost. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. Water moderately, especially during dry periods.
Australian Landscaping
Lemon Verbena can be a beautiful addition to herb gardens and cottage gardens in Australia. Its upright growth habit makes it suitable for adding height and fragrance to garden beds. It can also be grown in containers, especially in cooler climates where it needs protection from frost.
Australian Companion Plants
Lemon Verbena pairs well with other herbs that enjoy similar growing conditions, such as Rosemary, Sage, and Lavender. Its strong scent can also help deter some pests in the garden.
Australian Disease Resistance
Lemon Verbena is generally relatively disease-resistant. However, it's susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. Good air circulation is also important. Watch out for pests like aphids and spider mites. Overall, it needs well-drained soil and protection from frost to thrive.