Lemon Verbena
lippia triphylla
Also known as: ["Lemon Beebrush","Three-Leaved Lippia"]
Overview
A fragrant, evergreen shrub native to South America, known for its lemon-scented leaves used in teas and aromatherapy.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Lippia |
| Botanical Name: | Lippia triphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from intense midday sun, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry heat; shield from extreme temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer after watering to avoid root burn; stop feeding in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Regular light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape as desired, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor, or flower drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLippia triphylla is not considered toxic to cats. The plant's essential oils are not known to cause significant harm to felines when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLippia triphylla is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant's essential oils are not known to cause significant harm to canines when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLippia triphylla, commonly known as lemon verbena, contains essential oils that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset when consumed in large amounts. The plant is generally considered safe for culinary use in moderation but may lead to adverse effects if ingested excessively.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lemon Verbena safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I propagate Lemon Verbena?
A: It can be propagated via stem cuttings or layering.
Q: What are the uses of Lemon Verbena?
A: It is used in teas, aromatherapy, culinary dishes, and as a natural insect repellent.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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