Lemon Verbena Growing Guide

Aloysia citrodora

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Rich well-drained soil.

Position

Full sun to partial afternoon shade.

Frost tolerant

Lemon verbena is a tender perennial. It will die back in winter and resurface in spring. Mulch it well and don't let its roots freeze otherwise it will die.

Feeding

Feeding is not generally needed.

Spacing

Single Plants: 35cm (1' 1") each way (minimum)
Rows: 30cm (11") with 45cm (1' 5") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Start with a purchased plant, or obtain a stem tip cutting from a friend and root it in late spring. Lemon verbena cuttings and divisions are best taken when plants are emerging from dormancy in late spring. It responds well to regular trimming.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Lemon verbena is the most "lemony" of all lemon foliage herbs. Locate it where leaves can be conveniently picked, crushed and sniffed.

Harvesting

Gather sprigs as desired. Smelling lemon verbena is a special delight of summer best captured in teas. Dry perfect leaves in small bunches, and store them in airtight containers. This is a fragrant herb to delight your sense of smell and can be used in flower arrangements.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Lemon Verbena

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail