Lemon Verbena
aloysia triphylla
Also known as: ["Aloysia citrodora","Lippia citriodora"]
Overview
Aloysia triphylla is a deciduous shrub native to South America, known for its intensely lemon-scented leaves and delicate white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Aloysia |
| Botanical Name: | Aloysia triphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely required otherwise
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun with adequate water.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to shape plant; remove crossing or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; place in slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and fragrance.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fragrance in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLemon verbena is generally non-toxic to cats when ingested in small to moderate amounts. However, like dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of the plant or its essential oil.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Dogs
Non-toxicLemon verbena is not considered toxic to dogs when ingested in small to moderate amounts. The plant's essential oil contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in small to moderate amounts
Humans
Non-toxicAloysia triphylla, commonly known as lemon verbena, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its essential oil may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its volatile compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lemon Verbena safe for pets?
A: Yes, Lemon Verbena is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I use Lemon Verbena in cooking?
A: The leaves can be steeped for tea, used in desserts, or added to marinades for a lemony flavor.
Q: Does Lemon Verbena require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
