Lemon verbena
aloysia citriodora
Also known as: ["Aloysia triphylla","Verbena lEMONIA"]
Overview
Aloysia citriodora is a deciduous shrub native to South America, known for its intensely lemon-scented leaves and traditional use 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: | Aloysia |
| Botanical Name: | Aloysia citriodora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or large container in a bright, sheltered area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth to rejuvenate it.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; protect from harsh winds that can increase water loss.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after pruning to encourage new growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears 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 with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove old or dead wood; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose the right pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
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 compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; cover outdoor plants with frost cloth; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; reduced fragrance and flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during extreme heat to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAloysia citriodora is not considered toxic to cats. It is safe for incidental ingestion, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAloysia citriodora is not considered toxic to dogs. It is safe for incidental ingestion, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAloysia citriodora, commonly known as lemon verbena, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in culinary applications and herbal teas for its lemony fragrance and flavor.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
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 propagate lemon verbena?
A: Lemon verbena can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in spring or early summer.
Q: What are the uses of lemon verbena?
A: Lemon verbena 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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