Kitchen garden

Lemon verbena

by Valentina

As its name says, lemon verbena, also called lemon beebrush, has a citrus aroma, for which it is appreciated in herbal teas. Not only it tastes deliciously, it also improves digestion.

Native to South America, it grows well in well-drained soil and not in direct sunlight. At the end of winter, it is good to prune the plant to strengthen it. We did this and now its growth is fabulous.

Here is a recap from our post on Spring and Summer Herbs.

Species: Aloysia citriodora/ Lippia citriodora (Verbenaceae)

Common name: EN Lemon beebrush, Lemon verbena, IT Verbena odorosa, FR Verveine citronnelle, ZH 柠檬马鞭草 (pinyin Níngméng mǎbiān cǎo)

Description: Shrub with pointed deciduous leaves and a pleasant lemon scent, growing up 2–3 meters. It can withstand temperatures below zero down to -5°C.

Origin: Native to South America.

Benefits: Improves digestion.

Uses: herbal teas with lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) or thyme, salads, cooked with poultry.

Cultivation: Well-drained soil and not in direct sunlight. At the end of winter, it is good to prune the plant to strengthen it.

Propagation in the garden: By cuttings.

Do you have lemon verbena in your garden? Share photos of your plants with us on our Instagram channel!

About Valentina

Valentina is an international communication consultant for the food industry. She has served communication and PR agencies for several years by providing insights into local French and Italian trends and traditions. Thanks to her Italian, French, and Chinese background, she focuses on promoting intercultural collaboration for sustainable development and tourism.

www.daybydayplants.com