A South American deciduous shrub whose narrow leaves smell intensely of lemon, used for tea, dessert flavoring, and a popular cottage garden herb.
Description
Lemon verbena has long lance-shaped leaves that release a vivid lemon citronella scent when brushed. Loose panicles of tiny white or pale lilac flowers appear in late summer.
Cultivation
A heat-loving plant from temperate South America, lemon verbena needs full sun, well-drained soil, and frost protection in cold regions. It is often overwintered indoors.
Uses
Brewed into a soothing herbal tea since the Spanish colonial era, lemon verbena also flavors fish, ice cream, sorbets, and liqueurs. The dried leaves keep their scent for over a year in potpourri.