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What Is Lemon Verbena?
What Is Lemon Verbena?. Lemon verbena is an herb used in cooking, scented products and lemon flavored beverages. It is often grown in pots or as a bush outside.
Lemon verbena is an herb used in cooking, scented products and lemon flavored beverages. It is often grown in pots or as a bush outside.
History
Lemon verbena originated in the countries of Argentina and Chile. It was brought to Europe by Spanish explorers during the 17th century and is still popular in France. It most often is used to make tea due to its lemony flavor. Its oil is used in perfumes and beverages.
Significance
The leaves and flowers of lemon verbena are used in flavoring culinary dishes, fish, poultry, vegetables and salads. It is a shrub that grows well in zone 9 and in pots anywhere else. It also has many medicinal uses.
Function
Dried lemon verbena leaves hold the flavor and scent, so they are often used in sachets, and pillows. The oil is often used in cosmetics like creams, oils and lotions. The lemon oil scent is often used to freshen rooms and storage areas.
Features
Lemon verbena thrives in well drained soil that is moist but not soggy. It needs full sun and soil with a pH level of about 6.5. Applying fish emulsion is helpful. It is best propagated by cuttings taken from the bush in the summer.
Considerations
If you bring lemon verbena in for the winter in colder climates, cut away any spindly branches. It does not do well in tempertaure below 40 degrees. It grows well in hot humid climates. Mist and wash leaves often when growing to keep away spider mites.
