Description
One kind of verbena (Aloysia citrodora) that blooms is called lemon verbena. Another name for it is lemon beebrush. In late summer, its small flowers blossom white or purple. The shiny, pointed, 8-centimeter (3-inch) leaves have a tiny roughness to the touch and, when damaged, release a distinct lemon aroma, which is why the plant is specifically called citrodora in Latin.
Potted lemon verbenas may not flower, but in late spring or early summer, sprays of tiny purple or white flowers appear. Although the wood is resilient to -10 °C, the plant is evergreen in tropical regions but is sensitive to cold, shedding leaves at temperatures below 0 °C.
Habitat
This species of flowering plant is indigenous to South America and belongs to the Verbenaceae family of verbena.
Uses
Lemon verbena leaves are used to flavor fish and poultry meals, vegetable marinades, salad dressings, puddings, jams, and drinks with a hint of lemon. Herb tea can also be made using it.
Plants like lemon verbena have amazing potential health benefits. According to some research, it might offer anti-obesity properties, guard against muscle damage, lessen oxidative stress, and enhance sleep quality.
Plant Care
- Light
Like other vegetables, lemon verbena requires six to eight hours in full sun per day. To avoid leggy growth and leaf drop, houseplants grown inside may require additional artificial lighting.
- Soil
Rich garden loam is ideal for lemon verbena, although it can also grow in normal soil. Plant them on raised beds or containers if the soil in your garden bed is heavy and compacted, as proper drainage is crucial.
- Water
Lemon verbena requires frequent watering. Plant stress, leaf drop, and insect pest infestation are caused by dehydration. Although the roots of the plants dislike remaining wet, keep the soil’s surface moist but avoid over-saturating it. Water the soil to a moisture level that resembles a wrung-out sponge once the top two inches have dried. During the winter, indoor plants can be kept somewhat dry but can still receive one weekly watering.
- Temperature and Humidity
Lemon verbena plants are native to South America, where they thrive in sunny, frost-free climates. Lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit will cause dormancy and leaf drop. Humidity or dryness are ideal conditions for plants. Given that lemon verbena is susceptible to frost damage, it would be preferable to cultivate it in a container that can be brought indoors for the winter.
- Fertilizer
In contrast to other plants, lemon verbena needs frequent fertilization to be lush and vibrant. In the spring, fertilize plants with a general-purpose fertilizer. Plant productivity can be maintained during the growing season by watering with compost or manure tea.
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