Lemon Verbena

Aloysia citrodora

Lemon Verbena is a perennial shrub that is native of western South America.  Plant it near walkways or patios to take full advantage of its beautiful lemon scent. In the kitchen, this herb has many uses, and is great in fish and poultry dishes. It can also be used in jams, vegetable marinades, salad dressings, puddings and in beverages. Lemon verbena has strong antioxidant properties, so is good as a herbal tea, or added to normal tea to add lemon flavour.

Lemon Verbena can grow up to 2m tall. Trim back regularly to keep the plant nice and bushy and to prevent it from becoming leggy. It prefers a sunny, well drained position, but is frost tender, and requires only moderate watering.