did you know?

In its native Argentina and Chile, lemon verbena can reach heights of 10?15 feet, but in the United States it is grown as a small, tender perennial in pots or flower beds. Its subtle lemon aroma is sometimes considered an aphrodisiac.

general maintenance:

To promote a bushy habit, pinch off tips until flowering begins.

pests/diseases:

Whiteflies, aphids, and spider mites may occur.

controls:

To control whiteflies, aphids, and spider mites, use horticultural-oil spray and beneficial predators. Regularly hose off aphids and spider mites with a strong stream of water.

how to sow/plant:

In temperate regions, plant after last frost. Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, and amend with well-rotted manure or compost. Set plants 2 feet apart. In containers, plant in a well-drained potting mix. Water after planting, and mulch to conserve moisture. In Zones 8 and colder, bring plants indoors in winter, cut back, and store containers in a cool, bright room, watering infrequently. In Zones 9?11, plants will grow outdoors as a small shrub.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced, soluble fertilizer, following package directions.

garden hint:

Lemon verbena's flowers close when damp and reopen as the sun dries them.

features:

• Fragrant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (make hot or iced teas, salads, jellies, desserts)
• Cut Flower
• Potpourri
• essential oils are used in perfumes, herbal baths, soaps

combine with:

beebalm feverfew foxglove sage and yarrow for a flowering herb or border garden.