Willowleaf Verbena
aloysia gratissima
Also known as: ["Willowleaf Lippia","Willowleaf Verbenopsis"]
Overview
Aloysia gratissima is a deciduous shrub native to South America, known for its fragrant foliage and small, white flowers that attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Aloysia |
| Botanical Name: | Aloysia gratissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, or large container in a bright location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to promote new growth
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid frequent shallow watering, and adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C)
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear 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; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems; light shaping of new growth; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter)
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 container; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and encouraging growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be fatal.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may also increase water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAloysia gratissima is not toxic to cats. The plant is considered safe for feline consumption in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAloysia gratissima is not toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAloysia gratissima is not considered toxic to humans. It is commonly used in culinary applications and traditional medicine without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloysia gratissima toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It has moderate maintenance needs, primarily requiring occasional pruning and watering during dry spells.
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
