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Description
Aloysia Citrodora, commonly known as the lemon verbena plant, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Verbenaceae family. It is native to South America and is widely grown for its fragrant leaves that have a lemony scent. The plant grows up to 2-3 meters tall and has a spread of about 1-2 meters. It has slender branches that bear elongated leaves that are pointed at the tip and serrated at the edges. It produces small clusters of tiny white or pale pink flowers in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Verbenaceae |
| Genus | Aloysia |
| Species | Aloysia Citrodora |
Appearance
The lemon verbena plant has elongated leaves that are about 5-10 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. They are glossy, dark green, and have a smooth texture. The leaves have a strong lemony scent when crushed or rubbed. The plant produces small clusters of tiny white or pale pink flowers that are about 5 mm in diameter. The flowers are arranged in spikes that can be up to 15 cm long. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2-3 meters tall.
Care Guide
Water: The lemon verbena plant requires regular watering during the growing season. Water it deeply once a week or more often if the soil is dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6-6.5.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as much foliage or flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The lemon verbena plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The lemon verbena plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To control these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
The lemon verbena plant is native to South America, specifically Argentina, Chile, and Peru. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and scrublands. The plant is widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America, for its fragrant leaves and ornamental value.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can the lemon verbena plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the lemon verbena plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and choose a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune the lemon verbena plant?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and cut back about one-third of the plant’s overall size. You can also pinch back the tips of new growth to encourage branching and bushiness.
Q: Can I use the leaves of the lemon verbena plant for cooking?
A: Yes, the leaves of the lemon verbena plant can be used for cooking. They have a strong lemony flavor and aroma and can be used to flavor teas, baked goods, and savory dishes. Use them fresh or dried.
Q: How can I propagate the lemon verbena plant?
A: The lemon verbena plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Choose a healthy stem that is about 8-10 cm long and has several nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. The cutting should root in about 4-6 weeks.
Related Plants
- Aloysia triphylla (Lemon Beebrush)
- Aloysia gratissima (Sweet Almond Bush)
- Aloysia virgata (Sweet Verbena)
- Verbena officinalis (Common Vervain)
References
- “Aloysia citrodora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e542
- “Lemon verbena.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13749/Aloysia-citrodora/Details
- “Growing Lemon Verbena.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/lemon-verbena/growing-lemon-verbena.htm
